What Is the First Treatment for Trochanteric Bursitis?

Trochanteric bursitis, also called greater trochanteric pain syndrome, causes tenderness over the bony outer side of the hip. The tissues around the hip may become irritated by repeated loading, lying on that side, stairs, running, or prolonged walking. Initial care aims to reduce the aggravating load while keeping the joint gently active.

Physiotherapy can assess hip strength, walking mechanics, and flexibility, then build a gradual programme for the gluteal muscles and surrounding leg. A clinician may also discuss a Cortisone Injection when pain is limiting rehabilitation. Shockwave Therapy may be considered later when symptoms continue despite an appropriate first approach.

Temporarily reduce activities that clearly increase outer-hip pain, such as repeated hills, deep side-lying pressure, or sudden increases in exercise. Keep comfortable movement within tolerance, avoid stretching directly into sharp pain, and consider sleeping on the opposite side with support between the knees. A physiotherapist can help you progress activity without repeatedly flaring the area.

Arrange an assessment if pain persists, disrupts sleep, changes your walking, or prevents ordinary activities. Seek prompt medical care after a significant fall, if you cannot bear weight, or if the hip is hot and red with fever. These features can point to an injury or another problem rather than simple activity-related irritation.

Ask what movements are currently overloading the hip, which exercises are suitable at your stage, and how progress will be judged. You can also ask when an injection or another treatment should be considered and what alternatives exist if rehabilitation is difficult because of pain.