Greater Trochanteric Hip Pain Explained
A Simple Guide for Active and Everyday People
Greater trochanteric hip pain is one of the most common causes of persistent pain on the outside of the hip, and something we regularly treat at South Coast Rx Physiotherapy. It affects runners, gym goers, walkers, and also people who are less active or spend long periods sitting.
If you have pain on the side of your hip that worsens with walking, running, climbing stairs, or lying on that side at night, this guide will help you understand what is going on and how physiotherapy can help.
If you are searching for hip pain treatment in Fareham or Portsmouth, this article explains the condition, why it develops, and the most effective evidence based treatment options.
What Is Greater Trochanteric Hip Pain?
Greater trochanteric hip pain, often shortened to GTPS, refers to pain felt over the bony area on the outside of the hip called the greater trochanter.
Despite being commonly labelled as “bursitis”, research now shows that GTPS is usually caused by overload and irritation of the gluteal tendons, particularly gluteus medius and minimus, rather than inflammation alone.
In simple terms, the tendons that help stabilise your hip become irritated because they are being asked to do more than they are currently able to tolerate.
Common Symptoms of Greater Trochanteric Hip Pain
People with GTPS often report:
Pain on the outside of the hip
Pain when lying on the affected side
Pain with walking, running, or climbing stairs
Pain when standing on one leg
Discomfort getting in and out of the car or bed
Hip pain that gradually worsens over time
Unlike arthritis, GTPS pain is usually felt on the side of the hip, not deep in the groin.
Early assessment at our Fareham or Portsmouth physiotherapy clinics allows us to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes of hip pain.
What Causes Greater Trochanteric Hip Pain?
GTPS rarely develops because of one single issue. It is usually the result of load exceeding tendon capacity over time.
Common contributing factors include:
1. Sudden changes in activity
Rapid increases in walking, running, gym training, or hill work.
2. Hip muscle weakness
Reduced strength in the gluteal muscles leads to poor load control at the hip.
3. Prolonged compression
Habitual side lying, standing with weight on one hip, or crossing legs.
4. Poor pelvic and lower limb control
This can increase strain through the lateral hip tendons.
5. Previous injury or reduced conditioning
Deconditioning lowers tissue tolerance to everyday loads.
Understanding why the pain developed is critical. This is exactly what our physiotherapists assess during your appointment.
How Long Does Greater Trochanteric Hip Pain Take to Settle?
Recovery time varies depending on how long symptoms have been present and how well the hip is rehabilitated.
As a general guide:
Mild or early symptoms: 6 to 12 weeks
Longstanding or persistent pain: 3 to 6 months
Rest alone rarely fixes GTPS.
Avoiding movement often leads to further weakness and prolonged pain.
The key to recovery is progressive, targeted rehabilitation.
Why Physiotherapy Is the Most Effective Treatment
Research consistently shows that exercise based physiotherapy is the most effective long term treatment for GTPS.
Effective rehabilitation should include:
Targeted gluteal strengthening
Progressive load tolerance training
Movement and posture education
Gradual return to walking or running
Load management strategies
Passive treatments alone do not address the underlying cause. Tendons need appropriate loading to recover.
At South Coast Rx Physiotherapy in Fareham and Portsmouth, your rehab plan is tailored to your lifestyle, activity level, and goals.
What Does GTPS Rehabilitation Involve at SCRx?
1. Early Stage
Pain education and activity modification
Reducing compressive positions
Isometric and low load strengthening
Improving hip control in daily movements
2. Mid Stage
Progressive gluteal strengthening
Single leg stability work
Functional loading through walking and stairs
Improving pelvic and lower limb mechanics
3. Late Stage
Higher load strengthening
Running or sport specific progressions
Return to full activity with confidence
Can Greater Trochanteric Hip Pain Be Prevented?
Recurrence is common if underlying strength and load issues are not addressed.
Prevention strategies include:
Maintaining gluteal strength
Gradual increases in training load
Avoiding prolonged hip compression
Regular strength and conditioning
We also offer Athletic Testing at our Fareham and Portsmouth clinics to identify strength deficits and asymmetries that may increase injury risk.
When Should You See a Physiotherapist?
You should book an assessment if you:
Have persistent pain on the outside of your hip
Struggle to lie on one side at night
Have pain that worsens with walking or running
Feel like your hip pain keeps returning
Are unsure whether your pain is coming from the hip or lower back
Early treatment leads to faster recovery and better long term outcomes.
Book an Appointment at South Coast Rx Physiotherapy
Fareham and Portsmouth
If hip pain is limiting your movement, sleep, or training, physiotherapy can help you return to activity safely and confidently.
Book online at www.scrx.co.uk
Our team in Fareham and Portsmouth is ready to help you move better and feel stronger.
References
Grimaldi A, Fearon A. (2015). “Gluteal tendinopathy: integrating pathomechanics and clinical features.” Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy.
Mellor R, et al. (2018). “Exercise and load modification versus corticosteroid injection for gluteal tendinopathy.” British Journal of Sports Medicine.
Fearon AM, et al. (2014). “Greater trochanteric pain syndrome: defining the clinical syndrome.” British Journal of Sports Medicine.
Cook JL, Rio E, Purdam CR, Docking SI. (2016). “Revisiting the continuum model of tendon pathology.” British Journal of Sports Medicine.
