Excision of Ischiogluteal Bursa

Ischiogluteal Bursa Excision

The ischiogluteal bursa, also called the gluteal or ischial bursa, is located between your gluteus maximus (buttock muscle) and your ischial tuberosity (sitting bone). The ischium is at the rear of your pelvis, and the ischial tuberosity is the bony prominence you sit on. Covering this prominence is your gluteus maximus, which enables hip extension. The bursa—a small fluid-filled sac—acts as a protective buffer, reducing friction during movement and helping your muscles contract smoothly.

The ischiogluteal bursa can become inflamed—a condition known as ischiogluteal bursitis—due to repetitive friction, prolonged sitting, trauma, or underlying rheumatic conditions, leading to pain and restricted movement. Chronic bursitis can develop from repeated inflammation, and in some cases, the bursa may become infected. Because the bursa lies close to the sciatic nerve, inflammation can mimic sciatica symptoms. If conservative treatments fail to relieve chronic bursitis, a surgical excision may be performed to remove the inflamed bursa and alleviate pain.

Symptoms following Ischiogluteal Bursa Excision

Following ischiogluteal bursa excision, you will be provided with crutches and instructed to avoid weight-bearing for approximately 2 days to protect the surgical site and support recovery. It is common to experience post-operative symptoms, including:

  • Pain and soreness around the surgical site.
  • Swelling and bruising at the incision area.
  • Stiffness in the buttock and hip region.
  • Mild weakness of surrounding muscles.
  • Numbness or tingling if nearby nerves were irritated during surgery.
  • Limited range of motion in the hip initially.

Physiotherapy following Ischiogluteal Bursa Excision

Following ischiogluteal bursa excision, acephysiosports.com will create a rehabilitation programme tailored to your needs, focusing on restoring your previous level of function. The original injury may result in muscle imbalances, muscle shortening, joint restrictions, biomechanical issues, and postural abnormalities. Our physiotherapists will target these areas to restore normal movement and painless function. A thorough assessment will be conducted to identify treatment priorities, followed by a structured rehabilitation plan. Initial treatment will focus on acute post-operative management, progressing to musculoskeletal recovery and muscular retraining. Treatment may include:

  • Pain and swelling management – ice, positioning, and gentle modalities.
  • Range of motion exercises – restoring flexibility safely.
  • Muscle activation and strengthening – targeting glutes, hamstrings, and supporting muscles.
  • Postural correction and alignment exercises – addressing biomechanical and postural issues.
  • Gait and functional movement training – improving daily activities and mobility.
  • Education and activity guidance – safe progression and injury prevention strategies.

Summary

Ischiogluteal bursa excision is a surgical procedure in which the bursa located between your buttock muscle and sitting bone is removed. Bursitis can develop due to repetitive trauma, and when conservative treatments fail, the bursa is completely excised. Physiotherapy is essential for reducing pain, restoring normal function, and preventing secondary problems. acephysiosports.com will design a comprehensive rehabilitation programme targeting these areas to ensure a full recovery and help prevent recurrence. For more information or to book an appointment, visit acephysiosports.com or call +65 81535374.

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