I have had recurrent bursitis (usually in one shoulder or hip) for nearly 20 years. It always occurs when I overwork a joint (particularly with repetitive movements, or sitting for long periods in one position) and some foods can help trigger an episode (dairy, wheat, yeast and red meats). Cold weather can also be a factor, though damp isn't. The initial pain is severe in the joint, and sometimes I have a general inflammatory illness for a few days (like the flu). I have found the best way to treat it is by complete rest until the inflammation subsides, then starting movements gradually. The most helpful is daily qigong, which keeps my joints mobile and usually pain-free, and also improves my spirits. I find mindfulness meditation also very helpful with the anxiety and mood swings which can accompany any chronic illness. I hope you also find ways to manage your pain and live a full life.

I went for a massage and the masseuse pulled my leg to one side to stretch it. She did the same procedure to both legs. The next day I had a huge collection of fluid on my hip the size of an orange. They said it was a bursa. No pain, but it is about the same size today as two weeks ago. The ortho MD told me to stop taking the inflammatory given to me in the emergency room and to put ice. He says if it bothers me, he may need to drain it.

I've been suffering from what I suppose is bursitis in my right hip for years now. I had sciatica but was able to get it under control with steroid shots to my spine some years ago. I love to go on long walks. By the time I get home I'm limping and in agony. Someone described the feeling as "on fire" which is right on. I've tried ice packs, Tylenol for arthritis, physical therapy and those don't work. Previously, I took OxyContin and Percocet, which I weaned myself off of a couple years ago. Being addicted to prescription drugs is worse than the pain. I'm thinking of trying cortisone shots again. There doesn't seem to be any new breakthroughs in treatment. I sympathize with all of you who have this ailment. No one can understand the constant pain, struggle to walk, or the inability to get comfortable in bed. My heart goes out to you.

I am 53 and was diagnosed with trochanteric bursitis in the left hip in 2005. I have been on roller coaster of cortisone shots, physical therapy, various pain killers, weight loss, hot packs and cold packs. Everything is short lived and if I could have those bursa surgically removed I would.

I am a 22-year-old male student at the University of Nairobi. I have bursitis in my right hip and I have trouble standing for long or sitting for long. It feels like my hip is burning from the inside out. I even feel pain when I get into bed at night.

I have suffered from lower back and hip pain since the birth of my son 16 years ago. This problem has slowly progressed over the years. I have tried softer mattresses, spent a fortune on chiropractors and osteopaths all to no avail. Now I really find that I cannot get comfortable in bed. The only time that the throbbing stops is when I lie on my back then I snore and wake myself up. I did have trouble sitting down as well but a cortisone injection helped with that but they did not help my hips .I saw a consultant recently and he told me that it can't be bursitis as it wouldn't last this long but didn't know what it could be! I have seen a rheumatologist and he says that as I am so flexible that I can't have rheumatism. The only way I get a reasonable night's sleep is to take a sleeping tablet but I rarely do this as they are addictive.

I am a 70 year old male who suffers from bursitis. In the right hip area and the pain from the inflammation migrates down across the thigh into the knee. Pain also refers to the lower spine - tailbone area. I also suffer from osteoarthritis in both knees and suspect it might also be in my lower spine. I get some relief from icing, but it is short lived. I sleep on my back and use a pillow between my knees. Walking and standing are difficult. I am going to try acupuncture - my last resort.