What are the treatment options for trochanteric bursitis?

Trochanteric bursitis affects the tissues around the bony outside of the hip. Pain may be worse when lying on that side, climbing stairs, walking uphill, or standing from a chair. Similar symptoms can come from tendon irritation or the lower back, so an examination helps identify the main source rather than treating the label alone.

Temporarily reduce hills, repeated stairs, deep side-lying, and movements that provoke sharp pain. Avoid pressing directly on the tender area and use a pillow between the knees when side sleeping. [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/) can build the hip and trunk muscles and adjust movement habits. A [Cortisone Injection](/treatments/non-surgical-orthopedics/cortisone-injection/) may offer short-term symptom relief in selected cases. [Shockwave Therapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/shockwave-therapy/) may be discussed when symptoms continue despite a rehabilitation plan.

Seek medical review if pain follows a fall, prevents normal walking, or is accompanied by fever, a hot swollen hip, unexplained weight loss, or pain that persists at rest. Urgent care is needed for sudden inability to bear weight or severe pain with a visibly shortened or rotated leg.

Ask whether the pain is coming from the bursa, gluteal tendons, or spine; which exercises are appropriate; and when an injection or shockwave treatment should be considered.