Trochanteric Bursitis, often included under the broader term Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS), occurs when the bursa over the outer part of the hip becomes irritated or inflamed. A bursa is a small fluid-filled sac that helps reduce friction between muscles, tendons, and bones.

The greater trochanter is the prominent bony area on the outer side of the femur (thigh bone). Several tendons and muscles, including the gluteal muscles, pass over this region. Repetitive friction, muscle imbalance, overuse, or injury can irritate the bursa and surrounding tissues, resulting in pain and functional limitations.

Although bursitis was once thought to be the primary cause of lateral hip pain, many patients also have involvement of the gluteus medius and gluteus minimus tendons, making a comprehensive rehabilitation approach essential.

At Magnum Physiotherapy, our evidence-based treatment programs focus on reducing pain, correcting movement dysfunctions, improving hip strength, and helping patients return to their daily activities comfortably.

Anatomy Involved

Greater Trochanter

A bony prominence on the outer side of the femur.

Serves as an attachment site for several hip muscles.

Trochanteric Bursa

A fluid-filled sac located between the greater trochanter and overlying soft tissues.

Functions to:

• Reduce friction
• Cushion movement
• Protect surrounding structures

Gluteus Medius & Gluteus Minimus

Important hip stabilizing muscles responsible for:

• Pelvic stability
• Walking mechanics
• Single-leg balance

Dysfunction in these muscles commonly contributes to symptoms.

Iliotibial Band (IT Band)

A thick band of connective tissue running along the outside of the thigh.

Tightness or excessive tension may increase irritation over the greater trochanter.

Common Symptoms

• Pain on the outer side of the hip
• Tenderness over the greater trochanter
• Pain when lying on the affected side
• Pain during walking
• Pain while climbing stairs
• Discomfort when standing from a seated position
• Hip stiffness
• Pain after prolonged standing
• Pain that may radiate down the outer thigh

Symptoms often worsen with prolonged activity or direct pressure on the hip.

Causes & Risk Factors

Repetitive Overuse

Common in activities involving:

• Running
• Walking long distances
• Stair climbing
• Repetitive hip movements

Muscle Weakness & Imbalances

Weak hip stabilizers can increase stress on the outer hip structures.

Direct Trauma

Examples include:

• Falls onto the hip
• Direct blows to the outer hip

Biomechanical Factors

• Leg length differences
• Poor walking mechanics
• Pelvic instability
• Flat feet

Risk Factors

• Female gender
• Middle-aged and older adults
• Obesity
• Lower back pain
• Hip osteoarthritis
• Previous hip injuries

Conditions Associated with Trochanteric Bursitis

• Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS)
• Gluteal Tendinopathy
• Hip Osteoarthritis
• Iliotibial Band Syndrome
• Lower Back Pain
• Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction

Diagnosis

A thorough assessment helps determine the source of lateral hip pain.

Clinical Examination

Evaluation includes:

• Pain location
• Hip mobility
• Muscle strength
• Walking pattern
• Functional limitations

Physical Examination Findings

Common findings include:

• Tenderness over the greater trochanter
• Pain with single-leg standing
• Pain during resisted hip movements

Imaging Studies

Ultrasound

May identify:

• Bursa inflammation
• Tendon abnormalities

MRI

Useful for evaluating:

• Gluteal tendon injuries
• Persistent symptoms
• Complex cases

X-rays

May help rule out arthritis or other bony conditions.

At Magnum Physiotherapy, we assess:

• Hip strength
• Mobility
• Balance
• Movement mechanics
• Functional performance

Treatment at Magnum Physiotherapy

Most patients respond very well to conservative physiotherapy treatment.

Pain Management

Activity Modification

Reducing aggravating activities helps decrease irritation.

Ice Therapy

May help reduce pain during flare-ups.

Education

Patients learn strategies to reduce stress on the affected hip.

Manual Therapy

May include:

• Soft Tissue Mobilization
• Myofascial Release
• Joint Mobilization

These techniques help improve mobility and reduce discomfort.

Stretching Exercises

Target:

• Iliotibial Band
• Hip Flexors
• Gluteal Muscles
• Tensor Fasciae Latae (TFL)

Improves flexibility and reduces tension around the hip.

Strengthening Programs

A key component of recovery.

Focus on:

Gluteus Medius

Improves pelvic stability.

Gluteus Maximus

Enhances hip power and control.

Core Muscles

Supports overall lower body mechanics.

Functional Strengthening

Improves movement efficiency during daily activities.

Gait & Movement Retraining

Addresses:

• Walking mechanics
• Running mechanics
• Pelvic control
• Lower limb alignment

Advanced Physiotherapy Treatments

Depending on individual needs:

• Class IV Laser Therapy
• Therapeutic Ultrasound
• TENS Therapy
• Interferential Therapy (IFT)
• Shockwave Therapy (where appropriate)
• Kinesiology Taping

Medical Management

If symptoms persist despite physiotherapy:

Corticosteroid Injections

May provide short-term symptom relief.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)

May be considered in selected tendon-related cases.

Surgical Intervention

Rarely required but may be considered for chronic, treatment-resistant cases.

Benefits of Physiotherapy for Trochanteric Bursitis

• Reduces pain
• Improves hip mobility
• Restores strength
• Enhances pelvic stability
• Improves walking mechanics
• Reduces recurrence risk
• Improves balance
• Supports return to activity
• Enhances athletic performance
• Improves quality of life

Recovery & Prognosis

Recovery depends on:

• Severity of symptoms
• Duration of symptoms
• Underlying tendon involvement
• Compliance with rehabilitation

Typical Recovery Timeline

Mild Cases

• 4–8 weeks

Moderate Cases

• 2–4 months

Chronic Cases

• Several months

Most patients achieve excellent outcomes with structured physiotherapy.

Prevention Tips

• Maintain hip strength
• Improve core stability
• Avoid sudden increases in activity
• Use proper exercise techniques
• Address gait abnormalities
• Maintain a healthy body weight

When Should You Seek Medical Attention?

Consult a healthcare professional if you experience:

• Persistent outer hip pain
• Pain while lying on your side
• Difficulty walking
• Hip pain that interferes with daily activities
• Symptoms that do not improve with rest

Early treatment can prevent chronic pain and improve recovery outcomes.

Why Choose Magnum Physiotherapy?

At Magnum Physiotherapy, we specialize in hip rehabilitation and musculoskeletal care. Our personalized Trochanteric Bursitis treatment programs combine evidence-based physiotherapy, strengthening exercises, movement correction, manual therapy, and functional rehabilitation to help patients return to pain-free movement and active living.