Abstract: A self-pressurizing and self-compensating hydrostatic bearing includes a thin bushing having fluid pockets and supply channels provided therein, the bushing being mounted within a bearing support housing. An annular space or chamber is maintained between the two components in order to accommodate radial deformation of the bushing under the influence of an increased pressure prevailing within the pockets of the bushing to facilitate fluid circulation as a result of an increase in rotational speed of a spindle supported by means of the bearing. The gap between the lands of the bushing, defining the pockets and channels, and the shaft or spindle, increases with an increasing speed of rotation of the shaft or spindle, such thereby essentially nullifying or preventing a rise in temperature of the fluid.