Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (Lateral Hip Pain)

What is greater trochanteric pain syndrome?

Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS) is a condition characterized by pain and tenderness on the outer side of the hip. It affects the structures around the greater trochanter, which is the bony prominence on the outside of the hip (femur).

GTPS primarily impacts the soft tissues, including the gluteal tendons, trochanteric bursa, and the iliotibial (IT) band.

What causes GTPS?

Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome can be caused by a combination of factors, including:

Weak hip muscles: Insufficient strength in the gluteal muscles can lead to overcompensation and strain.
Overuse: Overuse or sudden increase in activity levels can put additional strain on the muscles and tendons around the hip.
Obesity: Excess weight increases stress on the hip.
Biomechanical issues: Poor posture, leg-length discrepancies, or abnormalities in gait that may put excess strain on the hip
Tendinopathy: Degeneration or tears in the gluteus medius and minimus tendons, often due to aging or overuse.
Age and gender: GTPS is more common in post-menopausal women due to hormonal changes that impact tendon health

What are the symptoms?

Localized pain and tenderness over the greater trochanter.
Pain that worsens with activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or lying on the affected side.
Discomfort when crossing legs or sitting for prolonged periods.
In some cases pain can radiate down the outer thigh but does not typically go past the knee.

How can osteopathy help?

Our Osteopaths can help with the management of GTPS in multiple ways, including:

Assessment and diagnosis of your condition
Manual therapy to relieve pain and improve mobility
Exercise prescription to improve strength and muscle imbalances that may be contributing to your pain
Education and advice on pain management and lifestyle modification to help manage your condition

If you have questions about GTPS and how our osteopaths might be able to help please call us on 03 5968 6889 or email info@emeralosteopathy.com.au We would love to work with you!

Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (Lateral Hip Pain)

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