The human hip joint is the foundation of the core, the base of stability, and an integral axis for force and strength. With great power, however, comes the possibility of great dysfunction. Hip pain is one of the most common complaints among patients seeking assistance from a Physical Therapist. Difficulties with daily activities such as walking, using stairs, laying on the painful side are all common symptoms of a condition affecting the outside of the hip known as Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome, or GTPS.
Pain involving the lateral hip is a very prevalent issue, affecting up to 25% of the general population.
In the past, patients with these symptoms were frequently diagnosed with “trochanteric bursitis”. However, the distinguishing features of inflammation and radiological findings of bursitis are not seen in all patients with lateral hip pain. More often in these patients, tendinopathy is the significant discovery on imaging – though, bursitis and tendinopathy can often coexist. Therefore, the preferred term to describe conditions involving lateral hip pain is Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome. Conservative interventions are the ideal form of treatment and Physical Therapy is known to resolve nearly all cases of GTPS.