Trochanteric Bursitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options - Orthopedics

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Trochanteric bursitis, also known as greater trochanteric pain syndrome, is a common condition that affects the hip area, particularly the outer part of the hip where the greater trochanter is located. This condition often arises due to inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between bones and soft tissues. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for trochanteric bursitis can help you manage your condition effectively.


Causes
Trochanteric bursitis can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
1. Injury or Trauma: As you mentioned, a fall or direct impact to the hip can lead to inflammation of the bursa. Your fall three months ago could have initiated this condition.


2. Overuse: Repetitive activities, especially those involving the hip, such as running, cycling, or climbing stairs, can irritate the bursa.

3. Postural Issues: Poor posture or gait abnormalities can place additional stress on the hip region, leading to bursitis.

4. Underlying Conditions: Conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or other inflammatory diseases can predispose individuals to bursitis.

5. Age and Gender: Trochanteric bursitis is more common in women and individuals over the age of 40.


Symptoms
The symptoms of trochanteric bursitis typically include:
- Pain on the Outside of the Hip: This is often the most prominent symptom. The pain may radiate down the thigh and can worsen with activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or lying on the affected side.


- Stiffness: You may experience stiffness in the hip joint, particularly after periods of inactivity.

- Tenderness: The area over the greater trochanter may be tender to the touch.

- Pain with Movement: Activities that involve bending or twisting the hip can exacerbate the pain.


Treatment Options
1. Rest and Activity Modification: Reducing activities that aggravate the pain is crucial. Avoiding prolonged standing, walking, or climbing stairs can help alleviate symptoms.

2. Ice Therapy: Applying ice packs to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and numb the pain.

3. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce pain and inflammation. It seems you have already tried NSAIDs without significant relief, which can sometimes happen.

4. Corticosteroid Injections: As you mentioned, your doctor administered a corticosteroid injection. This can provide significant relief for many patients, although it may take a few days to notice the effects.

5. Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles around the hip and improve flexibility. A physical therapist can design a tailored exercise program to address your specific needs.

6. Muscle Relaxants: These can help alleviate muscle tension that may be contributing to your pain.

7. Surgery: In rare cases, if conservative treatments fail, surgical options may be considered to remove the bursa or address any underlying issues.


Conclusion
It’s important to continue working closely with your healthcare providers to monitor your symptoms and adjust your treatment plan as necessary. If the pain persists despite conservative measures, further evaluation may be warranted to rule out other potential causes of your symptoms. Additionally, consider discussing your concerns about the diagnosis with your healthcare provider, especially if you feel that the treatment is not aligning with your symptoms.
In summary, trochanteric bursitis can be a frustrating condition, but with appropriate management, many patients find relief and can return to their normal activities. Keep an open line of communication with your healthcare team, and don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion if you feel it’s necessary.