Lateral hip pain is also known as hip bursitis or greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS). It’s a common condition that is characterised by discomfort or pain on outside of the hip, the area encompassing the greater trochanter (a bony prominence on the femur) and the surrounding soft tissues (including tendons, muscles and bursae.)
Inflammation is one of the main causes of lateral hip pain, or irritation of the trochanteric bursa – a fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between the greater trochanter and the overlying muscles and tendons.
The symptoms of lateral hip pain might include:
Treatment for lateral hip pain aims to alleviate symptoms, reduce inflammation and address any underlying causes. It can involve a combination of rest, activity modification, physiotherapy to strengthen your muscles and improve flexibility, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), injections of corticosteroid to reduce inflammation, and, in some severe cases, surgery might be recommended.
Preventing lateral hip pain involves taking steps to avoid overuse or repetitive motions that put strain on the hip muscles and tendons. Things like maintaining proper posture and body mechanics during physical activity become extremely important, along with gradually increasing the intensity or duration of your exercise, and incorporating stretching and strengthening exercises into your regular routine.
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