Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS)

Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS) is a condition characterised by pain at the outside of the hip. It’s often associated with tenderness over the greater trochanter, the prominent bony part at the side of the hip.

The pain can be caused by a variety of underlying issues, such as inflammation of the bursa (bursitis), tendinopathy, or muscle tears near the greater trochanter. It’s a common cause of lateral hip pain and can be aggravated by lying on the affected side, walking, or other hip movements. 

Outside hip pain, also known as lateral hip pain, can be caused by several conditions in addition to Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS). Some of these conditions include:

1. Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS): Inflammation or tightness of the iliotibial band, which runs along the outside of the thigh.
2. Hip Arthritis: Degenerative changes in the hip joint can cause pain in various locations, including the outside of the hip.
3. Hip Fractures or Stress Fractures: Particularly in older individuals or athletes.
4. Meralgia Paresthetica: Compression of a sensory nerve near the hip, leading to pain, numbness, or tingling.
5. Lumbar Spine Conditions: Problems in the lower back can sometimes refer pain to the hip area.
6. Tendinitis or Muscle Strains: Inflammation or injury to the muscles and tendons around the hip.
7. Bursitis: In addition to the trochanteric bursa, inflammation of other bursae around the hip can cause pain.
8. Tumour or Infection: Though rare, these can present with hip pain.
9. Referred Pain from Pelvic Organs: Conditions affecting internal organs such as the ovaries or appendix might sometimes manifest as hip pain.

These conditions may have different underlying causes, symptoms, and treatments. Accurate diagnosis typically requires a comprehensive clinical evaluation, possibly including physical examination, medical history, and imaging studies. The treatment would be tailored according to the specific diagnosis.

The symptoms of Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS) include chronic pain and tenderness at the outside of the hip, often aggravated by lying on the affected side, walking, or other hip movements.

Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS) is caused by inflammation and irritation of the bursa, tendons, and other soft tissues around the greater trochanter, the bony prominence at the outside of the hip. This can result from repetitive motions, acute injury, excessive pressure on the hip, underlying hip conditions, or a combination of these factors.

The best treatment for Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS) typically involves a combination of conservative measures tailored to the individual’s specific symptoms and underlying causes. Common treatments include:

• Physiotherapy: Focusing on stretching and strengthening exercises for the hip and surrounding muscles.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Such as weight loss if necessary and avoidance of activities that exacerbate the pain.
• Shockwave therapy 
• Corticosteroid Injections: In some cases, to alleviate inflammation.

To help fix Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS), a physiotherapist, orthopaedic specialist would typically be involved in assessing and treating the condition through a combination of therapies and interventions.

Yes, exercise is generally beneficial for Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS) when done correctly. Specific stretching and strengthening exercises can help alleviate symptoms by improving flexibility, building muscle strength around the hip, and promoting overall joint health. Exercise is usually a key component of a comprehensive treatment plan for GTPS.

Surgery for Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS) is generally considered only when conservative treatments fail, and the decision should be made with an orthopaedic specialist, weighing potential benefits and risks.