Trochanteric Bursitis
Trochanteric bursitis is a common cause of outer hip pain. It occurs when the trochanteric bursa becomes irritated or swollen. This small, fluid-filled sac sits on the outer side of the femur and cushions the iliotibial (IT) band, a thick tendon that runs along the outside of your leg.
What Is Trochanteric Bursitis?
Trochanteric bursitis develops when the bursa over the bony prominence of the hip, called the greater trochanter, becomes inflamed. The bursa normally helps reduce friction between the bone and the IT band as you walk, run, or climb stairs. When it is irritated, it can cause significant pain and tenderness along the outside of the hip.
What Causes Trochanteric Bursitis?
Trochanteric bursitis is often related to overuse or irritation of the outer hip. Common causes include:
- Repetitive stress from activities such as walking, running, or climbing
- A fall or direct blow to the outside of the hip
- Poor posture or abnormal gait that changes how you load the hip
- Tightness of the IT band or hip muscles
- Certain medical conditions, including arthritis or spine problems
These factors increase friction over the bursa, leading to inflammation and pain.
Signs and Symptoms
The most common symptom of trochanteric bursitis is pain on the outer side of the hip. This pain may:
- Feel sharp at first, then become a dull ache
- Spread down the outside of the thigh or into the buttock
- Worsen with physical activities that involve the hip, such as walking, running, or climbing stairs
- Feel more intense when you lie on the affected side
Symptoms may come on gradually and can become more frequent or severe over time if not treated.
Non-Surgical Treatment
Most patients improve with non-surgical treatment. Options may include:
- Rest and activity modification
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Physical therapy to stretch the IT band and strengthen the hip muscles
- Temporary use of a cane or crutches to reduce pressure on the hip
These treatments aim to reduce inflammation, improve flexibility, and restore comfortable movement.
Surgical Treatment
If a non-surgical, conservative treatment plan does not relieve symptoms, surgery may be considered. Our hip preservation specialist, Benton A. Emblom, MD, is a fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon who commonly diagnoses and treats trochanteric bursitis and other causes of outer hip pain. When appropriate, he may recommend an arthroscopic procedure to address inflamed tissue around the bursa and relieve pain.
Benton A. Emblom, MD
Benton A. Emblom, MD, is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopaedic sports medicine surgeon who specializes in hip preservation and the treatment of conditions such as trochanteric bursitis. He has extensive experience caring for competitive athletes and active individuals who depend on proper hip function for daily movement and performance.
Dr. Emblom serves as a head team orthopaedic physician for Auburn University, the University of Alabama, Hoover High School, and several additional local high schools. His expertise in hip preservation allows him to provide a full range of treatment options for outer hip pain, from conservative management to advanced arthroscopic procedures when needed.
If you are experiencing symptoms of trochanteric bursitis or another hip condition, and would like to request an appointment with Dr. Emblom, call (205) 939-3699 and ask to speak with Dr. Emblom’s appointment scheduler.
To request an appointment online, CLICK HERE or contact Andrews Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Center at (205) 939-3699 for assistance.
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