Iliopsoas Tendinitis and Bursitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Private Treatment

Reviewed By:
Dr. Sameer Gohir PhD, MSc, PG Cert MSK ultrasound, PG Cert. Non-Medical Prescribing, MCSP, MAPPN
Muhammad Asim Ishaque MSc, PG Cert MSK ultrasound, Dip. MSK Medicine, PG Cert. Non-Medical Prescribing, MCSP, MAPPN

What Is Iliopsoas Tendinitis and Bursitis?

Iliopsoas tendinitis and bursitis are conditions characterized by inflammation in the iliopsoas muscle and the associated bursa located in the hip region.

These disorders can lead to significant discomfort and restrict mobility, primarily affecting athletes and individuals with active lifestyles.

If hip or groin pain from iliopsoas tendinitis or bursitis is affecting your walking or daily comfort, you don’t have to manage it alone.

With clinics near Kent and Essex, Joint Injection Clinic offers expert treatments to help relieve pain and restore your mobility.

Schedule your consultation now!
Iliopsoas Tendinitis and Bursitis Treatment near Kent and Essex

Understanding Iliopsoas Tendinitis and Bursitis

Iliopsoas Tendinitis: refers to inflammation of the iliopsoas tendon, which connects the iliopsoas muscles (iliacus and psoas major) to the femur. This condition often develops due to repetitive hip flexion or an acute injury.

Iliopsoas Bursitis: involves inflammation of the iliopsoas bursa, a fluid-filled sac that cushions the iliopsoas tendon from the underlying bone during hip movement. Both conditions are commonly associated due to their anatomical proximity and can occur simultaneously, often referred to as iliopsoas syndrome.

Common Causes of Iliopsoas Tendinitis and Bursitis

The leading factors contributing to iliopsoas tendinitis and bursitis include:

  • Repetitive Stress: Activities that involve repetitive hip movements, such as running, dancing, or cycling, can strain the iliopsoas muscle and tendon, leading to inflammation.
  • Acute Injury: Sudden trauma to the hip, such as a fall or a direct hit during sports, can result in immediate tendon or bursa irritation.
  • Chronic Conditions: Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis may predispose individuals to bursitis by causing joint inflammation or altering biomechanics around the hip joint, leading to friction on the bursa.
  • Poor Flexibility: Tight hip flexors can increase the pressure on the bursa and tendon, contributing to inflammation.
  • Age: As people age, the tendons and muscles may become less resilient, making them more susceptible to tendinitis or bursitis.

Symptoms of Iliopsoas Tendinitis and Bursitis

Patients with iliopsoas tendinitis and bursitis may experience various symptoms, including:

  • Groin Pain: Pain localized in the front of the hip that may radiate down the thigh or to the lower back.
  • Stiffness: Particularly in the morning or after prolonged periods of inactivity.
  • Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty in hip flexion or extension.
  • Tenderness: Pain upon palpation in the hip region, especially in the femoral triangle.
  • Snapping Sensation: A possible “snapping” of the tendon over the femur during movement.

How Is Iliopsoas Tendinitis and Bursitis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a thorough medical history and physical examination, coupled with imaging techniques like MRI or ultrasound. These methods help assess inflammation in the bursa or tendon and exclude other potential hip problems.

Treatment Options

Treatment for iliopsoas tendinitis and bursitis varies based on severity and involves both conservative and surgical strategies:

Non-Surgical Treatment for Iliopsoas Tendinitis and Bursitis

  • Rest and Activity Modification: Reducing activities that exacerbate symptoms is crucial for recovery.
  • Ice Therapy: Applying ice packs can help decrease inflammation and relieve pain.
  • Physiotherapy: Engaging in targeted exercises to improve flexibility and strengthen hip muscles. A stretching and strengthening program is often highly beneficial.
  • Medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) can alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
  • Corticosteroid Injections: In cases of severe pain or refractory conditions, corticosteroids may be injected directly into the bursa or around the tendon to provide relief. Find out risks and benifits of cortiosne injections.

Advanced Treatment Options for Iliopsoas Tendinitis and Bursitis

When conservative measures are ineffective, surgical options may be considered, including:

  • Bursectomy: Surgical removal of the inflamed bursa to relieve pressure.
  • Tendon Release or Repair: If the tendon is severely damaged, surgical intervention may be necessary to restore function and alleviate pain.

Conclusion

Iliopsoas tendinitis and bursitis are conditions that can significantly impact daily activities and athletic performance. Early diagnosis and intervention are essential for effective management. By adopting appropriate treatment strategies and preventive measures, individuals can achieve relief from discomfort and regain functionality in the hip joint.

Private Iliopsoas Tendinopathy & Bursitis Assessment

Pain at the front of the hip or groin can come from the iliopsoas tendon or bursa, but it can also arise from the hip joint, labrum or other structures. A focused assessment is important before deciding whether treatment should target the tendon, bursa or another source.

Rehabilitation and load modification are usually important for iliopsoas tendinopathy. Where a symptomatic iliopsoas bursa is suspected, an ultrasound-guided corticosteroid injection may be considered in selected cases. Persistent snapping, deep joint symptoms or an uncertain diagnosis may require further imaging or specialist review.

Iliopsoas Treatment Near You

Dartford Clinic – North Kent & South East London

Ultrasound-Guided Injections in Dartford

Kings Hill Clinic — West Malling & Mid Kent

Ultrasound-Guided Injections in Kings Hill

Canterbury Clinic – East Kent & the Kent Coast

Ultrasound-Guided Injections in Canterbury

Romford Clinic – East London & Essex

Ultrasound-Guided Injections in Romford


Request an Iliopsoas Assessment

Frequently Asked Questions

A guided corticosteroid injection may be considered when the iliopsoas bursa is thought to be a significant pain source. It is not automatically appropriate for every case of anterior hip pain.

No. The intended target is the bursa or another clinically identified structure; corticosteroid should not be described as a routine injection into tendon substance.

Yes. Hip joint and labral problems can cause similar groin symptoms, which is why examination and selective imaging may be needed.

Other Hip & Groin Conditions Conditions We Treat

Not sure whether your symptoms match this condition? Explore the other hip pain conditions assessed and treated at JIC.