What to expect from shockwave therapy for trochanteric bursitis

The clinician checks the exact site of tenderness, hip movement, walking pattern and the muscles that support the pelvis. The applicator is moved over the lateral hip through gel, delivering pulses that may feel like tapping, pressure or vibration. Treatment intensity can be adjusted if the area is sensitive.

Mild soreness or temporary skin redness may occur. Lateral hip pain can involve nearby gluteal tendons as well as the bursa, so the examination helps guide treatment and rehabilitation rather than relying on the label alone.

Follow advice about walking, stairs, side-lying and exercise after the session. Avoid sudden increases in running, hill walking or side-stepping if they reproduce the pain. A pillow between the knees and avoiding direct pressure on the sore side may make rest more comfortable.

Rehabilitation often builds hip-abductor and pelvic-control strength gradually. Tell the clinician about blood-thinning medicine, altered sensation, infection, skin problems or a recent injection before treatment, and report any activity-related flare at review.

Contact the treatment service if pain is escalating, the hip becomes increasingly hot or swollen, or skin changes spread. Seek urgent assessment for inability to bear weight after an injury, sudden marked weakness, fever with a hot swollen area, or new leg numbness.

Ask whether the painful structure is the bursa, a gluteal tendon or both; which positions to change at home; how to progress strengthening; and when walking or sport can be increased.