Expert: Dr. Brendon J. O`Brien, D.C. - 10/4/2004

Question
For several months, I have had pain in both hips, diagnosed as ischial bursitis.  Various analgesics offer minimal and temporary relief, but the problem persists.  Since this is defined as inflammation of the bursae, is it a condition that can be relieved by chiropractic treatment?  Does it respond fairly readily to treatment, or only over a protracted time?

Answer
Hello Frank,

   Chiropractic may help with your bursitis.  Bursae become inflamed usually due to friction (tight muscles), or trauma.  With ischial bursitis the Glutes and Hamstrings muscles are almost always involved.  Getting the aforementioned soft tissues treated by massage, trigger point therapy, etc.(depending on the location of the adhesion/scar-tissue), will help reduce the adhesions in the muscle belly, tendon, or ligament.  Also adjusting the pelvis will restore proper biomechics and thus reducing stress on the soft tissues.  Icing helps and you may need a cushion if you sit for long periods of time.  You may want to see a doctor of chiropractic who specializes in soft tissue injuries/sport injuries.

I hope you find this information helpful,

Dr. Brendon O'Brien D.C.