Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome

Greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS), commonly referred to as trochanteric bursitis or lateral hip pain, involves irritation of the bursa and tendons around the greater trochanter, a bony prominence on the outer hip. This condition typically develops from repetitive stress, overuse, muscle weakness or imbalance, or direct compression on the area. The greater trochanter serves as an attachment point for several hip muscles and tendons, making it vulnerable to strain during weight-bearing activities like walking, running, climbing stairs, or prolonged standing.

Individuals with GTPS commonly experience pain on the outside of the hip, particularly with weight-bearing activities or when lying on the affected side. Pain may radiate down the outer thigh and often worsens with stairs, walking on uneven surfaces, or crossing the legs. Many people experience morning stiffness or pain after periods of activity. The condition often responds well to conservative care, including activity modification, targeted hip strengthening exercises, and management of any underlying muscle imbalances or movement pattern problems.

Early intervention can help prevent chronic pain and functional limitation.

Understanding Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome

Lateral hip pain that worsens with weight-bearing and side-lying

Greater trochanteric pain syndrome is one of the most common causes of lateral hip pain, particularly in active individuals and those with certain movement patterns. Understanding the condition and its triggers can guide effective management and recovery.

At Trenton Integrative Health Centre, we regularly work with patients experiencing lateral hip pain and understand how GTPS can affect daily movement and activity level.

What Is Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome?

GTPS refers to pain and irritation around the greater trochanter, a bony prominence on the outer hip. This area is subject to significant stress during weight-bearing activities, particularly when muscles supporting the hip are weak or when movement patterns are altered.

The condition may involve bursa irritation, tendon inflammation, or both, and typically develops from repetitive stress rather than a single traumatic event.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms of greater trochanteric pain syndrome may include:

• Pain on the outside of the hip
• Pain that worsens with weight-bearing activities like walking or stairs
• Pain when lying on the affected side
• Pain with crossing the legs
• Difficulty walking or limping
• Stiffness, particularly in the morning or after activity
• Occasionally, pain radiating down the outer thigh

Symptoms typically develop gradually and fluctuate with activity level.

Why Does Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome Develop?

Contributing factors may include:

• Repetitive weight-bearing activities or overuse
• Hip muscle weakness or imbalance, particularly in abductors
• Altered movement patterns or poor biomechanics
• Prolonged standing or walking
• Direct compression or pressure on the area
• Tight hip or thigh muscles
• Sudden increases in activity level

GTPS typically develops from cumulative stress on the hip structures.

How Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome Is Typically Managed

Care focuses on reducing stress on the affected tissues, addressing muscle weakness and imbalance, and restoring proper movement patterns.

Management may include:

• Activity modification to avoid aggravating movements
• Avoiding prolonged sitting or certain positions
• Targeted strengthening exercises for hip stabilizers
• Stretching and mobility work for tight hip muscles
• Hands-on therapy to manage pain and restore function
• Gradual return to activity as symptoms improve

Addressing underlying weakness and movement patterns helps prevent recurrence.

What to Expect During Recovery

GTPS typically improves gradually with consistent activity modification and appropriate strengthening. Pain usually decreases as hip stability improves and stress on the area is reduced.

Recovery timelines vary, but many people notice meaningful improvement within weeks to months with proper management and consistency with exercises.

How TIHC Supports Hip Pain Recovery

At Trenton Integrative Health Centre, care begins with understanding how lateral hip pain is affecting your movement, daily activities, and comfort. Treatment plans are individualized and may involve one or more members of our collaborative care team, with a focus on reducing pain, restoring hip stability and strength, and supporting long-term hip health.

Our evidence-informed, non-invasive approach helps you move comfortably and return to your activities with confidence.