If you’ve ever experienced persistent pain on the outside of your hip, particularly when lying on that side or walking upstairs, you may be dealing with a condition known as Trochanteric Bursitis. This is a common, yet often misunderstood, condition that can significantly impact your daily life, but the good news is physiotherapy can offer effective relief and long-term recovery.

What Is Trochanteric Bursitis?

Trochanteric Bursitis is the inflammation of the bursa — a small fluid-filled sac — located over the greater trochanter, the bony point on the outer side of your hip. The bursa’s job is to reduce friction between bones and soft tissue. When irritated or inflamed, it can cause sharp or aching pain that may radiate down the thigh or worsen with movement or pressure.

Common causes include:

• Repetitive activities such as running or climbing stairs

• Poor posture or abnormal gait

• Muscle imbalances or weakness, especially in the glute muscles

• Previous hip injuries or surgeries

• Conditions like arthritis or scoliosis

Symptoms to Watch For

• Pain on the outside of the hip and thigh

• Discomfort when lying on the affected side

• Pain that worsens with walking, climbing stairs, or standing up after sitting

• Swelling or tenderness over the hip

If left untreated, this condition can become chronic, impacting your ability to move freely and enjoy everyday activities.

How Can Physiotherapy Help?

Physiotherapy is one of the most effective, non-invasive treatments for Trochanteric Bursitis. Here’s how it can help:

1. Pain Management

In the early stages, your physiotherapist will focus on reducing inflammation and pain using techniques such as ice therapy, ultrasound, shockwave therapy, or soft tissue work. These modalities help settle the irritated bursa and surrounding tissues.

2. Stretching Tight Structures

Often, tightness in the iliotibial band (ITB) or hip flexors contributes to irritation of the bursa. Your physio will guide you through gentle, targeted stretches to ease tension and improve mobility.

3. Strengthening Weak Muscles

Weakness in the gluteal muscles, particularly gluteus medius, can lead to poor hip mechanics and overloading of the bursa. Strengthening exercises tailored to your condition will correct imbalances, improve your gait, and reduce strain on the hip.

4. Posture and Gait Correction

Poor movement patterns can overload the hip joint. Your physiotherapist may assess your walking style, sitting habits, and posture to make ergonomic adjustments that support healing.

5. Activity Modification

Learning how to adjust your activities without aggravating symptoms is crucial. A physiotherapist will help you develop strategies to stay active without triggering flare-ups,whether that means switching from running to swimming or adjusting your sitting posture at work.

The Takeaway

Trochanteric Bursitis doesn’t have to be a long-term setback. With early intervention and a structured physiotherapy program, most people experience significant improvements. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend walker, or someone dealing with age-related wear and tear, physiotherapy offers a personalised and proven path to recovery.

If you’re struggling with hip pain, don’t put it off. Book an appointment with one of our experienced physiotherapists at Unique Physio and take the first step towards lasting relief and recovery.