Left Greater Trochanteric Bursa: What to Know

A bursa is a small, fluid-filled cushion that helps tissues glide near a joint. The greater trochanter is the bony prominence on the outside of the upper thigh. Irritation there may cause aching, burning, or sharp tenderness that can spread down the outer thigh without reaching the foot. Pressure from sleeping on the painful side, repeated stair climbing, running, or changes in walking can aggravate it. Swelling may be subtle, and outer-hip pain can also come from nearby tendons or the hip joint, so the location alone does not confirm the cause.

Reduce activities that clearly increase the pain for a short period, while keeping gentle movement within comfort. Avoid lying directly on the sore side; a pillow between the knees may reduce pressure when side-lying. Cold or warmth can be tried with a cloth barrier, depending on which feels more soothing. A clinician or physiotherapist can check hip strength, gait, and movement, then guide gradual strengthening of the hip muscles. Discuss whether anti-inflammatory medication or a cortisone injection is suitable for you; these options have different cautions. [Anti-Inflammatory Medication](/treatments/non-surgical-orthopedics/anti-inflammatory-medication/) and [Cortisone Injection](/treatments/non-surgical-orthopedics/cortisone-injection/) explain related treatments.

Arrange an assessment if pain persists, repeatedly returns, limits sleep, or makes walking difficult. Seek urgent medical help for a hot, markedly swollen or red area with fever, sudden inability to bear weight, severe pain after an injury, or new leg weakness or numbness. Joint aspiration is a specialist procedure used in selected situations to examine or remove fluid; it is not a routine step for every outer-hip pain problem. Learn about [Joint Aspiration](/treatments/non-surgical-orthopedics/joint-aspiration/) if a clinician raises it.

Ask: Could the pain come from the bursa, hip tendons, or the hip joint? Which movements should I modify? What exercises can I start safely? Would medication or an injection be appropriate with my health history? What changes should prompt a faster review?