Outer Hip Bursitis: What You Should Know

A small fluid-filled sac near the greater trochanter helps tendons glide over bone. Irritation in this area is often called trochanteric bursitis or greater trochanteric pain syndrome. Pain may spread down the outer thigh, and the skin may feel sensitive to pressure. Hip weakness, changes in walking, prolonged standing, a sudden increase in activity, or sleeping on the painful side can keep symptoms active. Similar pain can come from nearby tendons or the lower back, so location alone does not confirm the cause.

A clinician may examine hip movement, strength, walking pattern, and tenderness. Imaging is considered when the story is unusual, an injury occurred, or symptoms do not settle.

Reduce activities that clearly increase 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-sleeping. Supportive footwear and gradual return to hills, stairs, or running can help. Physiotherapy may address hip strength, load management, and movement habits. A clinician may discuss a cortisone injection or shockwave therapy when appropriate; these options are chosen after assessment, not as automatic first steps.

Arrange an assessment if pain persists, disrupts sleep, limits walking, or keeps returning after activity changes. Seek prompt care after a fall if you cannot bear weight, or if the hip is visibly swollen, hot, or red. Fever, feeling unwell, sudden severe pain, new leg weakness, or loss of bladder or bowel control needs urgent medical attention. Outer hip pain does not by itself identify one condition.

Ask whether the pain is coming from the bursa, nearby tendons, the spine, or the joint; which activities should be modified; whether an exercise plan is suitable; and what improvement should look like before you return to sport or side-sleeping.