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Lateral Hip Pain: Causes, Symptoms, And Treatments

18/10/2023

What is Hip Bursitis and Gluteal Tendinopathy?


Hip bursitis is a condition that causes inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that cushions the greater trochanter, a bony prominence on the outside of the hip. Gluteal tendinopathy is a condition that causes inflammation of the tendons of the gluteal muscles, which are located at the back of the hip.

These two conditions are often related, and it is common to have both hip bursitis and gluteal tendinopathy at the same time. This is because the bursa and the gluteal tendons are located close to each other and work together to help the hip move smoothly.

What are the symptoms of hip bursitis and gluteal tendinopathy?

 
The most common symptom of hip bursitis and gluteal tendinopathy is pain on the outside of the hip. The pain may be worse when lying on the affected side, walking upstairs, or getting in and out of a car. Other symptoms may include:
  • Swelling and tenderness on the outside of the hip
  • Difficulty moving the hip
  • A popping or clicking sound in the hip
     
 
 

What causes hip bursitis and gluteal tendinopathy?

 

Hip bursitis and gluteal tendinopathy can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

  • Repetitive use of the hip, such as from running, jumping, or climbing stairs
  • Overuse of the hip, such as from playing sports or doing heavy lifting
  • Injury to the hip, such as from a fall or a car accident
  • Age-related wear and tear on the hip joint
  • Certain medical conditions, such as arthritis and diabetes
 

How are hip bursitis and gluteal tendinopathy treated?

 

Most cases of hip bursitis and gluteal tendinopathy can be treated with conservative measures, such as:

Rest: Avoiding activities that aggravate the pain is important for allowing the bursa and tendons to heal.
Ice: Applying ice to the affected hip for 20 minutes at a time can help to reduce inflammation and pain.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Over-the-counter NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can help to reduce inflammation and pain.
Physical therapy: A physical therapist can teach you exercises to strengthen the muscles around the hip and improve range of motion.

In some cases, other treatments may be necessary, such as:

Corticosteroid injection: A corticosteroid injection can be used to reduce inflammation and pain. However, corticosteroid injections should not be used too often, as they can weaken the tendons.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection: PRP injections are a newer treatment option that uses the patient's own blood to promote healing.
Surgery: Surgery is rarely necessary for hip bursitis and gluteal tendinopathy, but it may be recommended in severe cases.
 

How to prevent hip bursitis and gluteal tendinopathy


There are a few things you can do to help prevent hip bursitis and gluteal tendinopathy, such as:
Warm up before exercise: Warming up before exercise helps to prepare your muscles for activity and reduce the risk of injury.
Listen to your body: If you experience pain in your hip, stop the activity and rest.
Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight puts extra stress on the hip joint. Maintaining a healthy weight can help to reduce the risk of hip bursitis and gluteal tendinopathy.
Avoid overuse: If you are new to an activity, start slowly and gradually increase the amount of time and intensity of the activity.
Strengthen the muscles around your hip: Strong muscles help to support the hip joint and reduce the risk of injury. You can strengthen the muscles around your hip with exercises such as squats, lunges, and side planks.

Conclusion:

Lateral hip pain, often caused by trochanteric bursitis or gluteal tendinopathy, can be a debilitating condition that affects your mobility and quality of life. However, with proper diagnosis, treatment, and lifestyle modifications, you can effectively manage the pain and regain your normal activities.

Remember, early intervention is key to preventing further complications and ensuring a speedy recovery. Consult your doctor or a physical therapist to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs.

Here are some key takeaways:

  • Lateral hip pain is a common condition that can be caused by various factors, including overuse, injury, and underlying medical conditions.
  • Symptoms typically include pain on the outside of the hip, which may worsen with certain movements or activities.
  • Diagnosis involves a physical examination, imaging tests, and ruling out other potential causes of hip pain.
  • Treatment options range from conservative measures like rest, ice, and physical therapy to more invasive interventions like corticosteroid injections or surgery in severe cases.
  • Prevention strategies include maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular exercise, and avoiding activities that strain the hip joint.

With proper care and management, you can overcome lateral hip pain and restore your freedom of movement.

Don't let lateral hip pain hinder your active lifestyle. Take charge of your well-being and schedule an appointment with one of our experienced exercise physiologists today. They will thoroughly assess your condition, identify the underlying causes, and create a customized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

Click the button below to book a consultation and embark on your journey towards pain-free movement and optimal hip health. Our team is dedicated to helping you regain your strength, flexibility, and overall mobility.
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