If you have ever experienced pain or discomfort on the outside of your hip you may have developed greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS). This condition is also known as trochanteric bursitis or hip bursitis, but it is actually more complex than a simple inflammation of the bursa in the hip. GTPS is a common musculoskeletal problem that can be caused by a variety of factors, including overuse, trauma, structural abnormalities, or degenerative changes. If you have been diagnosed with GTPS, you may be wondering whether it will go away on its own or if you need treatment. In this blog post, we’ll explore the nature of GTPS and discuss the best ways to manage this condition.
First of all, it’s important to understand that the severity and duration of GTPS can vary depending on the underlying cause and individual factors. In some cases, GTPS may resolve on its own with rest, ice, and other conservative measures. However, in many cases, GTPS may persist or recur despite these interventions. Some common risk factors for GTPS include aging, female gender, obesity, tight hip muscles, poor posture, and a history of hip surgery. If you are experiencing chronic or disabling pain on the outside of your hip, it is recommended that you seek medical attention from a healthcare professional who can diagnose and treat the underlying cause of your symptoms.
Once you have been diagnosed with GTPS, your healthcare provider may recommend a variety of treatment options based on your individual needs and goals. These may include physiotherapy, chiropractic care, injection treatment, or surgery. Physiotherapy is often a conservative first-line treatment for GTPS, as it can help to improve hip strength, flexibility, and mechanics, as well as address any contributing factors such as poor posture or gait abnormalities. Chiropractic care may also be beneficial for reducing pain and improving joint mobility in the hip. Injection treatment, such as corticosteroid or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, may be recommended for more severe or resistant cases of GTPS. Finally, surgical intervention may be necessary in some cases, particularly if there is a structural or mechanical problem in the hip joint that is contributing to GTPS.
In addition to these formal treatments, there are several self-care strategies that can help to manage GTPS and prevent its recurrence. These may include rest, ice, heat, gentle stretching, and avoiding aggravating activities. It’s also important to address any contributing factors that may be exacerbating your GTPS, such as obesity, poor posture, and a sedentary lifestyle. A trained healthcare professional, such as a physiotherapist or chiropractor, can help you to develop a comprehensive plan for managing your GTPS.
Greater trochanteric pain syndrome can be a complex and frustrating condition to deal with, but it is important to remember that it is treatable. While some cases of GTPS may resolve on their own, many require a combination of professional treatment and self-care strategies to manage pain and prevent recurrence. By taking a proactive approach to your GTPS and seeking care from a qualified physiotherapist or chiropractor, you can reduce your pain and improve your hip function and mobility. Remember, if you are experiencing chronic or disabling pain on the outside of your hip, don’t suffer in silence – seek help today.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Nitin Nair, BPT, R/TRO DIP, PT, or another Kitchener physiotherapy practitioner at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
