Greater Trochanteric Bursitis | Physio4Life

Greater trochanteric bursitis

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INJURY TITLE

Greater trochanteric bursitis

 

 

INJURY OVERVIEW

Pain on the outside of the hip, that can be tender to touch.  The painkiller is usually well localised to the outside of the hip but can also be experienced further down the leg also (sometimes as far as the foot).

 

 

INJURY IN-DEPTH INFORMATION

A bursa is a fluid sac that exists normally between other structures to prevent friction and aid movement.  However, sometimes they can become irritated and painful, and so any movement of the surrounding structures can potentially cause pain

 

This condition often coexists with a tendon problem nearby (in one of the gluteal muscles).  Pain can be increased by stretching this gluteal muscle because it stretches the tendon (that may be painful) and also compresses the bursa which may be swollen and irritated.

 

 

COMMON SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

Pain on palpation of the outside of the hip.

Pain on getting out of a car

Pain on using stairs

Pain when wearing snug trousers

 

 

HOW IS IT ASSESSED

Clinical assessment to try and establish if the pain is more to do with the tendon or the bursa.  Also to clear pain referral from the spine and pelvis.

Ultrasound testing can confirm the presence of both the bursitis and a tendon problem.

 

 

 

 

GENERAL TREATMENT

Physiotherapy to stretch the surrounding structures (with the limits set by pain)

Inflammation management (ice and medication)

Sometimes a corticosteroid injection can help to calm the symptoms so rehabilitation can ensue.

 

 

Exercise Videos: i.e.

Rotator cuff strengthening

Pec stretch

etc

 

 

WHICH HEALTH PROFESSIONAL TO CONSULT

PHYSIO     X MEDIC     X PODIATRY     

 

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