Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS) treatment from Benji Physio

Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS), Lateral Hip pain treatment from Benji Physio

Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS) or commonly known as Lateral Hip pain, is a condition characterized by pain and tenderness over the greater trochanter, which is the bony prominence on the side of the hip.

This condition is also known as trochanteric bursitis or external snapping hip.

The greater trochanter is the point where several muscles and tendons attach to the femur (thigh bone). When these structures become irritated or inflamed, it can lead to pain and discomfort in the hip region.

How Benji Physio can help treat Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS) - Lateral Hip Pain?

  • As you have read, GTPS can be caused by many factors. We will run a through assessment to confirm the diagnosis, its causes and rule out any other issues (such a hip joint problem or a back problem)

  • Providing information about the condition, its causes, and factors contributing to pain.

    Educating on proper posture, body mechanics, and techniques to avoid exacerbating symptoms.

  • ESWT has been shown to be very successful in treating injuries such as Lateral Hip Injuries, and we have had fantastic results at the clinic.

  • Designing a targeted exercise program to strengthen the muscles around the hip, particularly the gluteal muscles.

    Incorporating mobility exercises to improve flexibility and reduce muscle tightness.

    Focusing on exercises that enhance hip stability and improve overall biomechanics.

  • Hands-on techniques, such as massage and soft tissue mobilization, to address muscle tightness and reduce tension around the hip.

    Joint mobilization or manipulation, if appropriate, to improve joint mobility and reduce pain.

  • Implementing functional exercises that mimic daily activities to promote better movement patterns and prevent the recurrence of symptoms.

  • Advising on modifications to daily activities or exercise routines to reduce stress on the hip joint and affected structures.

  • Analysing walking patterns to identify any abnormal gait mechanics that may contribute to the condition.

    Providing recommendations for modifications to walking or running techniques.

Free Exercises that can help
Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS) - Lateral Hip Pain?.

Key features of Greater Trochanteric Pain/Lateral Hip-pain Syndrome include:

1. Pain: Patients typically experience pain on the outer aspect of the hip, which can radiate down the side of the thigh.

2. Tenderness: There is tenderness when pressure is applied to the greater trochanter.

3. Pain with activity: The pain often worsens with activities that involve repetitive use of the hip, such as walking, running, or climbing stairs.

4. Lying on the affected side: Discomfort may be felt when lying on the side of the affected hip.

Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS), Lateral Hip pain treatment from Benji Physio

GTPS is commonly associated with inflammation of the trochanteric bursa, a fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between tendons and bones. However, it's important to note that other structures, such as the tendons of the gluteal muscles, can also contribute to the syndrome.


Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS), Lateral Hip pain can have various causes, and it often involves inflammation or irritation of the structures around the greater trochanter of the femur.

The main contributing factors to GTPS include:

1. Trochanteric Bursitis:

Inflammation of the trochanteric bursa, a fluid-filled sac located near the greater trochanter, can cause pain and tenderness. The bursa functions to reduce friction between tendons and bones, and when it becomes inflamed, it can lead to GTPS.

2. Tendon Injuries:

The tendons of the gluteal muscles (specifically the gluteus medius and gluteus minimus) attach to the greater trochanter. Overuse, repetitive movements, or sudden injuries can lead to tendonitis, causing pain and discomfort.

3. Hip Muscle Weakness or Imbalance:

Weakness or imbalances in the muscles around the hip, particularly the gluteal muscles, can contribute to GTPS. This can lead to altered biomechanics and increased stress on the greater trochanter.

4. Trauma or Injury:

A direct blow to the hip or a fall can result in injury to the greater trochanter or the surrounding structures, leading to pain.

5. TIliotibial Band (ITB) Syndrome:

The ITB is a thick band of connective tissue that runs along the outer thigh and can sometimes contribute to GTPS when it becomes tight or irritated.

6. Repetitive Stress or Overuse:

Activities that involve repetitive movements of the hip, such as running, climbing stairs, or prolonged sitting, can contribute to irritation and inflammation around the greater trochanter.

7. Bone Abnormalities:

Rarely, structural abnormalities or conditions affecting the bones around the hip can contribute to GTPS.

It's important to note that GTPS is often a multifactorial condition, meaning that several factors may contribute to its development. Additionally, individual factors such as age, gender, and overall health can play a role in the onset of Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome.

Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS), Lateral Hip pain treatment from Benji Physio