Chronic hip pain doesn’t just affect your body—it impacts your entire day, from getting out of bed in the morning to settling into a restful night’s sleep. When standard treatments fail to provide lasting relief, it’s time to consider alternate solutions. Advances in regenerative medicine—specifically Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy—are offering a promising new direction. Let’s explore the science behind this innovative approach to treating hip bursitis.
Understanding Chronic Hip Bursitis
Chronic hip bursitis occurs when the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that reduces friction in your hip joint, becomes persistently inflamed. The inflammation is typically caused by repetitive stress or overuse—common in athletes, runners, or individuals with physically demanding jobs. Direct trauma to the hip, poor posture, gait abnormalities, or underlying conditions like arthritis also play a role.
This condition often results in aching or sharp pain on the outer part of the hip, especially after activity or prolonged sitting. For many, the discomfort lingers despite rest, medication, and physical therapy.
How PRP Therapy Works
PRP therapy harnesses the healing potential of your own blood. A small sample is drawn, then spun in a centrifuge to separate and concentrate the platelets—cells that play a critical role in tissue repair. This concentrated platelet-rich plasma is then injected into the irritated area around the bursa.
The Biological Power of Platelets
Platelets release a cascade of growth factors and signaling proteins such as PDGF (platelet-derived growth factor) and TGF-β (transforming growth factor beta).1 These molecules may stimulate:
- New tissue growth
- Reduction in chronic inflammation
- Improved blood flow
- Enhanced cellular repair
Unlike medications that simply mask symptoms, PRP works at a cellular level to support true recovery.
Why PRP for Hip Bursitis?
Patients who undergo PRP treatment for chronic hip bursitis often appreciate:
- A minimally invasive procedure
- A natural, drug-free approach
- Low risk of side effects
- A focus on healing rather than short-term symptom relief
Some begin to notice improved mobility and reduced discomfort within a few weeks.
Considering PRP as a Treatment Option
If hip bursitis continues to affect your quality of life despite conventional care, PRP may offer a regenerative solution worth exploring. Each patient’s case is unique, so a thorough evaluation is essential to determine suitability. Schedule your consultation with Dr. Avino today.
AUTHOR: Robert J. Avino M.D. is a board-certified and fellowship-trained adult hip and knee reconstruction surgeon at Palm Beach Orthopaedic Institute. Dr. Avino specializes in robotic-assisted hip and knee replacement using the minimally invasive direct anterior approach to hip replacement, across Palm Beach County in South Florida.
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