Musculoskeletal Condition · Glastonbury, CT

Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (Hip Bursitis)

Outer hip pain worse when lying on one side may be greater trochanteric pain syndrome. Learn about evaluation with Dr. Tortland in Glastonbury, CT.

Written and clinically reviewed by

Paul D. Tortland, DO, FAOASM, CAQSM, RMSK

Dr. Paul Tortland, DO is a non-surgical orthopedic & sports medicine physician specializing in regenerative orthopedics and surgical alternative treatment. He is dual board-certified in Sports Medicine & Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine (OMM) and Regenerative Medicine, Fellowship-trained in Sports Medicine. He became the first physician in the world to earn board certification in Regenerative Medicine in 2015. Diplomate, American Board of Regenerative Medicine (ABRM), 2015. Registered in Musculoskeletal Ultrasound (RMSK).

Condition

What is greater trochanteric pain syndrome?

Pain over the outer point of the hip, often worse when lying on that side or climbing stairs. It is frequently caused by irritation of the gluteal tendons as well as the bursa, so treatment centers on progressive loading and activity changes, with injection options considered for persistent cases.

Explore related conditions: Browse the Hip condition hub for related diagnoses and treatment options.

CARE OPTIONS

How is greater trochanteric pain syndrome treated?

Dr. Tortland’s potential treatment options: Dr. Tortland evaluates whether lateral hip pain comes from the gluteal tendons, bursa region, or another source. For persistent gluteal tendinopathy, he may discuss PRP treatment in selected cases; injection choice depends on the diagnosed tissue, and evidence varies.

Physical therapy and traditional care: Education and progressive physical therapy are central, especially hip-abductor strengthening and reducing repeated compression of the outer hip. Temporarily modifying running, hills, and painful side-lying positions can help. A clinician may discuss medication or other injections when suitable.

When other care may be needed: Persistent pain, marked weakness, inability to bear weight, or symptoms following significant injury warrant further evaluation to rule out other causes.

Common questions

Questions about greater trochanteric pain syndrome

What causes greater trochanteric pain syndrome (hip bursitis)?

It is mostly irritation or degeneration of the gluteal tendons, sometimes with an inflamed bursa, from overload, weak hip muscles, hip or pelvic mechanics, or direct pressure from lying on the side.

What are the symptoms of greater trochanteric pain syndrome?

Symptoms often include pain over the outer point of the hip that worsens when lying on that side, climbing stairs or standing on one leg. Pain may spread down the outer thigh. The source can involve gluteal tendons as well as the bursa region.

What are the non-surgical treatment options for hip bursitis?

First-line care often focuses on progressive gluteal strengthening, activity modification and reducing compression over the outer hip, such as avoiding painful side-lying or crossing the legs. A physical therapist can guide loading. Medication may help symptoms when medically appropriate.

What regenerative options may help hip bursitis?

For persistent gluteal tendinopathy, Dr. Tortland may discuss an ultrasound-guided injection such as PRP in selected cases. Evidence varies and injection care should be combined with a tailored loading program. A precise diagnosis matters because isolated bursitis and tendon disease are not identical.