Author: Mr Oliver Eaton BSc (Hons), PG.Cert – Orthopaedic Specialist
Reviewed by: Mr William Sharples BSc (Hons) – Pain Management Expert
Last Updated: September 2025
In this article, you will find out everything you need to know about Trochanteric Bursitis and the most effective ways to treat it, including an advanced treatment called Prolotherapy
Table of Contents
What is Trochanteric Bursitis?
Trochanteric bursitis is a common cause of hip pain, especially in adults over 40. It occurs when the bursa—a small, fluid-filled sac near the outer point of the hip (greater trochanter)—becomes inflamed. This inflammation leads to pain, tenderness, and sometimes swelling on the outside of the hip.
Symptoms of Trochanteric Bursitis
- Pain on the outside of the hip, especially when lying on the affected side
- Tenderness to touch over the greater trochanter
- Worsening pain with walking, climbing stairs, or standing up from a seated position
- Occasional swelling or warmth over the hip
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion
Causes & Risk Factors
Trochanteric bursitis can be caused by:
- Repetitive hip movements (e.g., running, cycling)
- Direct trauma or falls onto the hip
- Leg length differences
- Arthritis or spinal conditions
- Obesity
- Previous hip surgery
Women and middle-aged to older adults are more commonly affected 1.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a combination of medical history, physical examination, and sometimes imaging (ultrasound or MRI) to rule out other causes of hip pain. A skilled clinician will palpate the hip and assess for tenderness, swelling, and range of motion.
Best Exercises for Trochanteric Bursitis
Exercise is a cornerstone of trochanteric bursitis management. The right exercises can reduce pain, improve hip strength, and prevent recurrence. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any exercise program.
1. Hip Abductor Strengthening
- Side-Lying Leg Raises: Lie on your unaffected side, lift the top leg up slowly, hold for 2 seconds, and lower. Repeat 10-15 times per side.
- Standing Hip Abduction: Stand upright, hold onto a chair, and move your affected leg out to the side. Hold for 2 seconds, return. Repeat 10-15 times.
2. Gluteal Strengthening
- Bridges: Lie on your back with knees bent, feet flat. Lift hips up, squeeze glutes, hold for 3 seconds, lower. Repeat 10-15 times.
- Clamshells: Lie on your side with knees bent, feet together. Open knees while keeping feet together, hold, and return. Repeat 10-15 times.
3. Stretching
- IT Band Stretch: Stand, cross the affected leg behind the other, lean away from the affected side. Hold for 20-30 seconds, repeat 2-3 times.
- Piriformis Stretch: Lie on your back, cross the affected leg over the opposite knee, gently pull the knee toward your chest. Hold for 20-30 seconds.
4. Balance & Core Stability
- Single Leg Stance: Stand on the affected leg, hold for 10-30 seconds. Repeat 3 times.
- Planks: Hold a plank position for 10-30 seconds, focusing on core engagement.
Tip: Avoid exercises that cause sharp pain. Gradually increase intensity as tolerated.
Treatments for Trochanteric Bursitis
In addition to exercise, several treatments can help manage trochanteric bursitis:
- Rest and activity modification
- Ice therapy to reduce inflammation
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Physical therapy
- Corticosteroid injections (short-term relief)
- Shockwave therapy
- Prolotherapy (see below)
Prolotherapy
In recent years, Prolotherapy has built its reputation within the medical community for its clinically proven ability to treat trochanteric bursitis.
Published research has proven its pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory and regenerative benefits 2.
Prolotherapy involves injecting a natural regenerative solution with tiny needles. This has been shown to stimulate the production of collagen cells, the small cells needed to help with trochanteric bursitis.
As prolotherapy is helping to treat the root cause of trochanteric bursitis, it is deemed to be a permanent fix, preventing the symptoms from returning.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this section is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Prolotherapy may not be suitable for everyone, and outcomes can vary. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional regarding your specific medical condition or treatment options. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of information you have read here.
Case Studies
Case Study 1: Rapid Recovery with Prolotherapy
A 52-year-old female runner presented with chronic lateral hip pain diagnosed as trochanteric bursitis. After 3 sessions of prolotherapy at ProHealth Clinic, she reported a 90% reduction in pain and returned to running within 8 weeks. Follow-up at 6 months showed no recurrence.
Case Study 2: Exercise & Prolotherapy Combination
A 45-year-old office worker with persistent hip pain failed to improve with physiotherapy alone. After adding prolotherapy, pain scores dropped from 7/10 to 1/10, and function was fully restored within 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does trochanteric bursitis take to heal?
With appropriate treatment, most people improve within 6-12 weeks. Chronic cases may take longer, especially if underlying biomechanical issues are not addressed.
Is exercise safe with trochanteric bursitis?
Yes, gentle strengthening and stretching exercises are recommended. Avoid activities that worsen pain.
What is the success rate of prolotherapy for trochanteric bursitis?
Studies and clinical experience show high success rates, with most patients experiencing significant pain relief and improved function 2.
Can trochanteric bursitis return after treatment?
Recurrence is possible if underlying causes (e.g., muscle weakness, poor biomechanics) are not addressed. Prolotherapy aims to provide a permanent solution by treating the root cause.
When should I see a specialist?
If pain persists despite self-care, or if you have difficulty walking, see a specialist for assessment and advanced treatment options.
Contact ProHealth Clinic Today for Your FREE 15-Minute Discovery Call
Don’t let trochanteric bursitis control your life any longer. Join the thousands of patients who have found lasting relief through prolotherapy at ProHealth Clinic.
Get in Touch
- Phone: Call Us Now
- Email: info@prohealthclinic.co.uk
Our Clinic Locations
- London: 104 Harley Street, Marylebone, W1G 7JD
- Manchester: The Hadley Clinic, 64 Bridge Street, M3 3BN
- Bedford: The Village Medical Centre, Kingswood Way, MK40 4GH
All clinics offer the same award-winning prolotherapy treatment with convenient appointment times, including evenings and weekends.
References
- Segal NA, Felson DT, Torner JC, et al. Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome: Epidemiology and Associated Factors. Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2007;88(8):988-992. View Study
- Rabago D, Slattengren A, Zgierska A. Prolotherapy in Primary Care Practice. Prim Care. 2010;37(1):65-80. View Study
- Fitzpatrick J, Bulsara M, Zheng MH. The Effectiveness of Prolotherapy in the Management of Lateral Hip Pain: A Systematic Review. J Prolotherapy. 2017;9:e964-e972. View Study
- Grimaldi A, Fearon A. Gluteal Tendinopathy: Integrating Pathomechanics and Clinical Features in Its Management. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2015;45(11):910-922. View Study
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Bursitis of the Hip (Trochanteric). Patient Resource
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making treatment decisions.