Does physiotherapy treat trochanteric bursitis?

Trochanteric bursitis is often used for pain around the bony outer side of the hip; clinicians may also call this greater trochanteric pain syndrome. Irritation can involve the bursa and nearby gluteal tendons. Pain may increase when lying on that side, climbing stairs, walking uphill or standing on one leg. A physiotherapist can examine hip movement, pelvic control, walking pattern and the way daily activities load the area. This helps distinguish lateral hip pain from pain referred from the back or another hip problem.

Treatment commonly starts by reducing direct pressure and temporarily modifying painful activities, rather than stopping all movement. Your programme may use gentle range-of-motion work followed by progressive strengthening for the gluteal and hip muscles. Guidance on sleeping positions, stair technique, sitting posture and gradual return to walking can make exercises more tolerable. The Physiotherapy page gives broader information about rehabilitation care.

Seek prompt assessment if hip pain follows a significant fall, you cannot bear weight, the joint is hot and red, or you have fever or rapidly increasing swelling. New numbness, leg weakness or loss of bladder or bowel control needs urgent medical attention. If pain is not settling or repeatedly returns, ask a clinician to confirm the diagnosis.

Ask whether the pain is coming from the bursa, gluteal tendons, the hip joint or the lower back. Ask which positions to avoid, how much walking is appropriate, and what improvement should allow you to progress strengthening.