What should you know about left trochanteric bursitis?

A small fluid-filled sac near the greater trochanter helps reduce friction between tendons and bone. Repeated loading, a change in activity, a knock, or irritation of nearby tendons can make this area sensitive. Pain may spread down the outer thigh, and the spot can hurt when touched. The label is sometimes used within greater trochanteric pain syndrome, which can involve the gluteal tendons as well as the bursa.

Reduce activities that sharply increase outer-hip pain for a short period, while keeping gentle movement. Avoid lying directly on the painful side and consider a pillow between the knees when side-sleeping. A clinician or physiotherapist can assess hip strength, walking mechanics, and nearby joints, then guide gradual strengthening. Options may include [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/), and selected cases may be considered for a [Cortisone Injection](/treatments/non-surgical-orthopedics/cortisone-injection/) or [Shockwave Therapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/shockwave-therapy/).

Arrange an assessment if pain persists, repeatedly disrupts sleep, limits walking, or follows a fall. Seek urgent care after a significant injury if you cannot bear weight, or if the hip is visibly deformed. Fever, marked redness, warmth, or rapidly increasing swelling also needs prompt medical attention.

Could the pain involve a tendon, joint, or nerve rather than the bursa? Which movements should I modify, and which strengthening exercises are appropriate? What findings would make an injection or another treatment worth considering?