hip conditions
Hip Bursitis
(Trochanteric Pain Syndrome)
hip conditions
Hip bursitis — or more accurately, trochanteric pain syndrome — is one of the most common causes of pain on the outer side of the hip. It often affects walking, stairs and sleep.
What?
Assessment
Treatment
FAQs
Hip Bursitis
What causes lateral hip pain?
Although traditionally called “bursitis,” research shows that many cases actually involve:
Gluteus medius or minimus tendinopathy
Small tendon tears
Overload at the iliotibial band (ITB)
Lumbar or pelvic movement issues
True bursal inflammation (less common)
Symptoms
Pain over the outer hip
Difficulty lying on the affected side
Pain walking uphill or climbing stairs
Aching down the outer thigh
Tenderness over the bony prominence
Hip Bursitis
How hip bursitis is assessed
Assessment includes a careful examination of the hip, pelvis and lower back.
Imaging (ultrasound or MRI) may be arranged if tendon injury is suspected.
These cases are usually supported by the wider MDT, particularly physiotherapy with expertise in hip biomechanics.
Hip Bursitis
Treatment options
Physiotherapy targeting hip abductors, pelvic control and ITB tension
Load modification
Shockwave therapy
Injections
Rarely, referral for surgical repair of significant gluteal tendon tears
Hip Bursitis