Greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS):

What’s causing your lateral pain? Could it be GTPS…

– Greater trochanteric pain syndrome or GTPS is a common condition causing pain on the
bony prominence on the outside of the upper thigh (greater trochanter)
– It was previously called ‘trochanteric bursitis’, however, current evidence suggests
the main cause is related to irritation or overload of the gluteal tendons, with or
without inflammation of the nearby bursa (a fluid filled sac which reduces friction
between bone and soft-tissues)

Main causes:
– Sudden increase in new or existing activity
– Hip abduction weakness or endurance
– Repetitive compression of the gluteal tendons

Typical symptoms:
– Lateral hip pain which may or may not radiate down the lateral thigh
– Pain when sleeping on the affected side
– Pain when walking, running or climbing stairs
– Pain when sitting with crossed legs or stretching the affected side
– Pain when standing on one leg or ‘hip hanging’

Risk Factors:
– Age >40 (common 40-60 years)
– Females have up to a 4 x greater likelihood of developing symptoms than males
– Females during the peri-menopause, menopause, or post-menopause stages
– Diabetes, Hypothyroidism, High BMI

Current management:
A landmark study in 2018, known as the LEAP trial, supports the use of physiotherapy-led
education and exercise in the management of GTPS. The study found that a programme
combining education and targeted exercise was more effective than corticosteroid
injection or a “wait and see” approach for reducing pain and improving function, with benefits
seen at both 8 weeks and 1-year follow-up.

If any of these symptoms sound familiar, or you would like to learn more about the right
education and exercises for your condition, book an assessment with one of our expert
physiotherapists. We can help determine whether GTPS is contributing to your pain and
create a tailored plan to support your recovery.

Author: Adam Dolling, Senior Physiotherapist. HCPC Registered PH142971

Disclaimer: The information provided is for general guidance only and is not a substitute for individual assessment or clinical advice. Please consult a qualified health professional for personalised care.