Understanding the Causes of Hip Bursitis

10. How doctors detect bursitis of the hip

In standard cases, the doctor only needs to make a physical exam and evaluate the patient's medical history to reach this diagnosis. The exam tests how stiff the hip has become, and whether or not the patient limps. Doctors normally ask questions such as, when did the pain start, and which actions trigger the pain. The next step often involves taking a set of x-rays to make sure this is the only source of this hip problem. For example, it can be hard to know from the examination and questions alone if this is a case of bursitis of the hip or arthritis in this joint.