Trochanteric bursitis

Question 1

What is trochanteric bursitis?

Answer 1

Inflammation of the bursa that lies over the greater trochanter on the outer hip

Question 2

What are bursae and what are their purpose?

Answer 2

Sacs found at bony prominences that contain a small amount of synovial fluid.

They aim to reduce friction during movement

Question 3

What can cause bursitis?

Answer 3

Friction from repetitive movements
Trauma
Inflammatory conditions - e.g. rheumatoid arthritis
Infection - septic bursitis

Question 4

How does trochanteric bursitis present?

Answer 4

Gradual onset lateral hip pain - may radiate down outer thigh
- aching or burning
- worse with activity and trying to sit crossed legged
Tenderness over greater trochanter
Pain on movement against resistance on examination

Question 5

How is trochanteric bursitis managed?

Answer 5

Rest
Ice
Analgesia - iBuprofen or Naproxen
Physiotherapy
Steroid injections

Can take 6-9 months to recover

**if infected - antibiotics