Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS) is a common cause of outer hip pain, particularly in people who are active or spend long periods standing. It often starts as a dull ache, and something you notice when lying on one side or after a long walk. Over time, it can become more persistent, making everyday movements uncomfortable. It is frequently referred to as “hip bursitis,” but in reality, GTPS is a broader condition involving the bursa, tendons, and surrounding soft tissues on the outside of the hip.
Understanding the available treatment options for Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome is key to reducing pain, restoring movement, and preventing recurrence.
What Is Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome?
GTPS refers to pain arising from the structures around the greater trochanter, the bony point on the outside of the hip. This may involve:
- Inflammation of the trochanteric bursa
- Irritation or degeneration of the gluteal tendons
- Friction from repetitive movement or overload
It is commonly seen in runners, walkers, and individuals with underlying biomechanical or postural issues.
Symptoms of Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome
Common GTPS symptoms include:
- Pain on the outside of the hip
- Tenderness when pressing the area
- Pain when lying on the affected side
- Discomfort when walking, climbing stairs, or standing
- Stiffness after rest
Symptoms often develop gradually and may worsen without appropriate treatment.
Causes of GTPS
Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome is usually linked to repetitive strain and mechanical overload, including:
- Overuse from walking, running, or sport
- Weakness in the gluteal muscles
- Poor hip or pelvic stability
- Altered gait or movement patterns
- Sudden increases in activity levels
Addressing these underlying factors is essential for long-term recovery.
Treatment Options for Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome
Conservative Management
Most cases of GTPS improve with conservative treatment, particularly when managed early. Initial treatment typically includes:
- Activity modification to reduce irritation
- Avoiding prolonged pressure on the hip
- Ice or anti-inflammatory strategies where appropriate
- Gradual return to movement
Rehabilitation is a key component. Targeted exercises focusing on gluteal strength, hip stability, and movement control help reduce strain on the affected tissues and lower the risk of recurrence.
Chiropractic and MSK Care
Where biomechanical factors are contributing, chiropractic care can be beneficial. Treatment may include:
- Joint mobilisation to improve hip and pelvic movement
- Soft tissue therapy to reduce muscle tension
- Postural and movement assessment
- Progressive rehabilitation programmes
This approach helps improve joint mechanics and reduce ongoing stress on the hip.
MSK Injection Therapies
For patients with persistent or more severe symptoms, MSK injection therapies may be considered. At the Private Injection Clinics, treatment options include:
- Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation within the trochanteric bursa, helping to settle pain on the outside of the hip and improve comfort, particularly when lying on the affected side or during activity.
- Prolozone injections or prolotherapy to stimulate healing in the gluteal tendons, which are commonly involved in GTPS, particularly in more persistent or degenerative tendon-related cases.
Most injections are performed under ultrasound guidance, allowing precise placement of the injection and improving treatment accuracy.
When Are Injections Recommended?
Injection therapy may be appropriate when:
- Symptoms persist despite conservative treatment
- Pain is limiting daily activity or sleep
- There is evidence of bursitis or tendon involvement
- Patients wish to avoid more invasive procedures
A detailed assessment ensures the most appropriate treatment is selected.
Summary
Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome is a very common cause of pain on the outside of the hip, often involving both the bursa and the surrounding gluteal tendons. While some cases do improve with conservative care and rehabilitation, many patients find their symptoms persist or keep returning.
In these situations, targeted MSK injections can play a key role, helping to settle inflammation, support tendon healing, and get you back to normal activity more quickly and comfortably.
If you are experiencing ongoing hip pain, an accurate diagnosis can help guide the most effective treatment plan.
Early treatment generally leads to better outcomes and faster recovery.
The Private Injection Clinics provide comprehensive assessment, rehabilitation guidance and advanced ultrasound-guided injection treatments, whilst The Optimum Spine Centre offers specialist chiropractic care – both ensuring care is tailored to your specific diagnosis and goals.
The Optimum Spine Centre is based on the coast in Leigh on Sea, and the Private Injection Clinics are in Leigh on Sea, as well as in Colchester, Essex and St Albans, Hertfordshire – perfect for patients in Essex, Kent, London, and surrounding areas.
Resources
- https://www.privateinjectionclinics.co.uk/
- https://www.optimumspinecentre.co.uk
- https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/muscle-bone-and-joints/leg-and-foot-problems-and-conditions/greater-trochanteric-pain-syndrome
Frequently Asked Questions
Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS) is a condition causing pain on the outside of the hip, often involving the bursa and gluteal tendons. It is commonly triggered by overuse, weakness, or biomechanical issues.
Not exactly. GTPS is a broader term that includes hip bursitis as well as tendon-related pain around the greater trochanter, and many cases involve both structures rather than just the bursa.
Treatment usually starts with conservative care, including activity modification and rehabilitation exercises. If symptoms persist, ultrasound-guided MSK injections such as corticosteroid may be recommended.
Recovery time varies, but many cases improve within 6–12 weeks with appropriate treatment. More persistent cases may take longer, particularly if tendon involvement is present.
Injection therapy may be considered if pain persists despite rehabilitation, affects sleep or daily activity, or does not improve with conservative treatment alone.