What is GTPS?

Greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS) is a common cause of pain over the outside of the hip. It often involves irritation or reduced load tolerance of the gluteal tendons, sometimes alongside changes in nearby bursae. It is not always simply “bursitis”.

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Clinical Symptoms

Pain when lying on the affected side, walking uphill, climbing stairs, standing on one leg or after a change in activity. Symptoms may spread down the outside of the thigh but do not necessarily indicate a nerve problem.

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Where do injections fit?

A corticosteroid injection around the greater trochanter may reduce pain in the short term for some people. However, it does not restore tendon capacity, and structured education and exercise can produce better longer-term outcomes than injection alone. Injection is best considered selectively, with an ongoing rehabilitation plan.

Risks and limitations

Potential adverse effects include temporary flare, skin colour change or fat atrophy near the injection site, infection (rare), and temporary blood glucose elevation. Repeated corticosteroid injections near tendons should be approached cautiously.

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as hip arthritis? No: GTPS affects tissues around the outside of the hip, rather than primarily the joint.
Can I keep walking? Usually yes, with sensible adjustment of distance and hills.
Is an injection essential? No; many people improve with well-targeted rehabilitation.

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Medical Resource: 

For further clinical guidelines on Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome view the official NHS GTPS Resource

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