What is Trochanteric Bursitis?

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 hip joint—becomes irritated or inflamed.

The bursa sits over the greater trochanter, which is the bony point on the outside of the hip. Normally, the bursa allows smooth movement of muscles and tendons over the bone. When it becomes swollen, it can cause pain and tenderness in this area.

Causes of Trochanteric Bursitis

Trochanteric bursitis may develop due to:

• Overuse or repetitive stress (e.g., running, climbing, or standing for long periods).
• Direct injury such as a fall or bump onto the hip.
• Weakness or tightness in the hip or thigh muscles.
• Poor posture or gait problems (such as limping or leg length differences).
• Other conditions such as arthritis in the hip, back problems, or previous hip surgery.

It is more common in women and older adults, but can affect anyone.

Symptoms

The main symptoms include:

• Pain on the outside of the hip, which may spread to the thigh or buttock.
• Tenderness when pressing over the bony part of the hip.
• Worse pain when lying on the affected side, walking, climbing stairs, or getting up from a chair.
• In some cases, pain may become chronic and persistent if not treated.

Diagnosis

A doctor can usually diagnose trochanteric bursitis by:

• Taking a history of symptoms.
• Examining the hip for tenderness and movement.
• In some cases, imaging tests (X-ray, ultrasound, or MRI) may be used to rule out other hip conditions.

Watch video of Hip Bursitis

Treatment Options

Non-Surgical Treatment (Most Common)

Most cases improve without surgery. Common treatments include:

• Rest and activity modification avoid movements that trigger pain.
• Ice packs to reduce pain and swelling.
• Anti-inflammatory medication for short-term relief.
• Physiotherapy exercises to strengthen hip and core muscles, improve flexibility, and correct gait problems.
• Weight management if needed, reducing pressure on the hip.
• Injections corticosteroid injections into the bursa can provide effective pain relief in stubborn cases.

Surgical Treatment (Rare)

Surgery is rarely needed but may be considered if symptoms persist despite treatment. Options include:

• Bursectomy removal of the inflamed bursa.
• Sometimes combined with procedures to release tight tissues around the hip.

Prognosis

• Most patients recover fully with non-surgical treatments.
• Physiotherapy and lifestyle adjustments play a key role in preventing recurrence.
• Some people may have occasional flare-ups, but these are usually manageable.

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