Greater Trochanteric Bursitis
Greater trochanteric bursitis is a common cause of pain on the outer side of the hip. It occurs when the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions the outer hip bone, becomes inflamed or irritated.
Causes
Greater trochanteric bursitis can result from:
- Overuse or repetitive movements such as running or climbing stairs
- Direct trauma, like a fall onto the side of the hip
- Weakness or tightness in hip or thigh muscles
- Gluteal tendon tears or degeneration
- Leg length differences, abnormal walking patterns, or spinal alignment issues
- Prolonged pressure on the hip, such as lying on one side.
Anatomy
The greater trochanter is the bony prominence on the outer side of the thigh bone (femur). Over this bone lies a bursa, which helps reduce friction between the bone and the overlying gluteal tendons.
When this bursa becomes inflamed — due to irritation, overuse, or pressure — it causes pain on the outside of the hip.
Greater Trochanteric Bursitis
Symptoms
Common symptoms include:
- Pain and tenderness over the outer side of the hip
- Pain when lying on the affected side, walking, or climbing stairs
- Sharp pain initially, which may become a dull ache over time
- Pain that radiates down the outer thigh
- Difficulty crossing legs or standing on one leg.
Diagnosis
Your doctor will assess the hip and may press over the outer bone to locate tenderness.
- Investigations may include:
- Ultrasound or MRI scans to check for bursal inflammation or associated tendon problems
- X-rays to rule out arthritis or other joint conditions including spinal examination.
Treatment
Most cases improve with non-surgical treatment, which may include:
- Rest and activity modification to reduce irritation
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Physiotherapy to strengthen hip muscles and improve posture
- Corticosteroid injection into the bursa for pain relief
- Shockwave therapy or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections in selected cases
Surgery is rarely required, but may be considered if symptoms persist despite comprehensive non-surgical management. This typically involves bursectomy (removal of the inflamed bursa) and, if needed, repair of gluteal tendon tears.
Recovery
With appropriate treatment, most people experience significant improvement within 6–12 weeks. Physiotherapy plays a key role in restoring hip strength, flexibility, and stability, helping prevent recurrence
Possible Complications
Although uncommon, ongoing symptoms can occur due to:
- Associated gluteal tendon tears
- Persistent inflammation or scar tissue
- Chronic pain or stiffness if rehabilitation is incomplete.
When To Seek Help
See your doctor if you experience:
- Ongoing pain on the side of the hip that interferes with sleep or daily activities
- Pain that does not improve with rest or medication
- Weakness, limping, or difficulty walking.
