Trochanteric bursitis is one of the many musculoskeletal conditions that become more common as we age. This condition can be painful and restrict our ability to move and enjoy life. Trochanteric bursitis causes hip pain in about 15% of women and 8% of men at some point in their lives, according to statistics. 

Trochanteric bursitis is a painful condition affecting the hip’s outer part of the hip. When the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between the hip bone and soft tissue, becomes inflamed, it causes the condition. Overuse, injury, or underlying medical conditions such as arthritis or gout are common causes of the condition. 

If left untreated, trochanteric bursitis can cause chronic pain and difficulty with daily activities such as walking, sitting, and standing. However, there are several potential benefits to understanding the condition and taking steps to manage its symptoms. 

Symptoms 

Symptoms of trochanteric bursitis include: 

• Pain and tenderness on the outer part of the hip, especially when lying on the affected side.  
• The pain may also radiate down the thigh towards the knee.  
• Other symptoms include stiffness and difficulty moving the hip joint. 

Causes 

The trochanteric bursa is a small sac located on the outside of the hip, between the bone and the tendons that connect the hip muscles to the bone. When this sac becomes inflamed, it can cause pain and tenderness in the hip area. Inflammation can be caused by several factors, including: 

• Repetitive movements or overuse of the hip muscles 
• Trauma or injury to the hip 
• Poor posture or gait mechanics 
• Obesity or excessive weight gain 
• Certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout 

Reducing Symptoms 

There are several things that can be done to reduce the symptoms of trochanteric bursitis. These include: 

• Rest and Ice: Resting the affected hip and applying ice can help reduce pain and inflammation. Ice should be applied for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day. 
• Exercise and Physiotherapy: Strengthening exercises and physical therapy can help improve hip joint mobility and reduce pain. A physiotherapist can create an exercise program tailored to the individual’s needs. 
• Laser Therapy: Laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses light energy to reduce pain and inflammation. It has been shown to be effective in treating trochanteric bursitis. 

Potential Benefits 

By understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatments of trochanteric bursitis, individuals can take steps to manage the condition and potentially experience several benefits, including: 

• Reduced pain and inflammation in the hip 
• Improved mobility and flexibility in the hip joint 
• Increased ability to engage in everyday activities without discomfort 

In conclusion, trochanteric bursitis is a common condition that can cause discomfort, limited mobility, and negatively impact one’s quality of life. Individuals can take appropriate steps to manage their symptoms and improve their overall health by becoming familiar with the causes, symptoms, and available treatments for trochanteric bursitis. It is important to remember that prevention is always preferable to treatment, so practising proper biomechanics and engaging in regular exercise can significantly reduce the risk of developing this condition. Individuals can effectively manage trochanteric bursitis and improve their overall well-being by being proactive and seeking medical advice as needed. 

If you have trochanteric bursitis symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention. Our experienced physiotherapists at R3 Physiotherapy in Wanstead and Ilford can help diagnose and treat the condition using a variety of techniques, including laser therapy. You can manage your symptoms and get back to doing the things you enjoy with the right treatment and self-care.
 

References

Silva F, Adams T, Feinstein J, Arroyo RA. Trochanteric bursitis: refuting the myth of inflammation. J Clin Rheumatol. 2008 Apr;14(2):82-6. doi: 10.1097/RHU.0b013e31816b4471. PMID: 18391607.

Wessam Mohammad Amin and Amr Ai Abdelkerim. “Greater trochanteric pain syndrome: a simplified MRI approach.” Egyptian Journal of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine volume 53, Article number: 96 (2022).