Trochanteritis, trochanteric bursitis or Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome
The greater trochanter is a bony prominence on the outer side of the hip where the tendons of the gluteus minimus and gluteus medius muscles attach.
Trochanteritis is the name commonly used to describe pain in this area, which can occur for a variety of reasons, so greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS) is the most accurate term.
Causes
Some of the causes include tendinopathy and inflammation of the trochanteric bursa, a gelatinous structure whose function is to minimise the friction between the bone and the tendon structures.
It has an estimated incidence of between 1.82 and 5.63 per 1000 patients/year and is more common in women than men, with some studies suggesting a ratio of 4:1.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis is based on the location of the pain (outer side of the hip) and tenderness on palpation of the greater trochanter, together with other signs and symptoms such as pain when lying on the affected hip, when sitting with crossed legs, or after prolonged periods standing on the affected leg.
The diagnosis and cause are confirmed by ultrasound.
The initial medical assessment, supported by an ultrasound at the time of consultation, allows the Com Corpus clinical team to ensure proper communication between the physician and the physiotherapist who will treat you.
Treatment
Conservative treatment is based on resolving the inflammatory process with rest, anti-inflammatory medication and changing activity.
Physiotherapy is essential in this process and can use other forms of therapeutic techniques such as ultrasound, laser or TENS (electrotherapy) as analgesic and anti-inflammatory agents. However, there is evidence of the benefits of improving neuromuscular performance, by adjusting the loads on muscle and tendon structures. The external rotators, abductors and hip flexors should be stretched and the gluteal muscles strengthened.
Local injection of corticosteroids using an ultrasound-guided procedure and shock wave therapy may be needed.
If you need treatment for trochanteritis, trochanteric bursitis or greater trochanteric pain syndrome, contact our physiotherapy clinics in Lisbon.
