Hip
- Greater Trochanteric Bursitis
What Is Greater Trochanteric Bursitis?
Greater trochanteric bursitis, also known as hip bursitis, is inflammation of the bursa located at the greater trochanter, the bony prominence on the outer side of the hip. The bursa is a small, fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion to reduce friction between the bones, tendons, and muscles around the hip joint. It is commonly caused by repetitive stress or overuse from activities like running or cycling, which place excessive pressure on the bursa. Direct trauma from a fall or blow to the hip, prolonged pressure from sitting or lying on one side, and poor posture or abnormal gait can also lead to bursa irritation. Additionally, muscle imbalances, leg length discrepancies, hip injuries, arthritis, and spinal conditions can contribute to the development of this condition by causing increased friction and inflammation around the hip joint.
What Are the Symptoms?
This pain may be sharp initially and later become an aching or burning sensation, often worsening with activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or lying on the affected side. Tenderness over the greater trochanter, stiffness in the hip joint, mild swelling, and muscle weakness can also occur, making everyday movements and activities challenging.
What May My Rehabilitation Consist Of?
- Sports Massage Therapy – Using a range of techniques to decrease swelling, increase blood flow, reduce muscle spasm and promote healing.
- Mobilisations – A manual technique used by your therapist to move the joint and soft tissues gently to restore normal range, open joint spaces and relieve pain.
- Exercise Rehab Programmes – An aftercare plan will be tailored specifically to you and your injury to help stretch, strengthen muscles and develop co-ordination and balance to aid recovery.
- Electrotherapy – Using high-frequency electrical currents to reduce pain and promote healing in deep tissues.
- Taping/Strapping – This may be used to restrict normal movement to allow the injury to heal without further damage. Kinesiology tape may be used to help support the joint without restricting movement, increase blood flow and restore proprioception awareness.
Common Conditions
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