08/31/2026
Understanding Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome
Lateral hip pain is commonly called hip bursitis, but the underlying problem can be more complex than inflammation of the bursa alone.
Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS) describes pain around the outside of the hip, particularly over or near the greater trochanter, the bony prominence on the upper outside of the femur.
Certain positions and movement patterns can increase compression around the lateral hip, such as prolonged side-lying, standing predominantly on one leg, and repeated movement into hip adduction.
When addressing persistent hip discomfort, the entire movement system matters, especially how the hip is being loaded.
The foot, knee, hip, pelvis, and lumbar spine all work together to distribute forces during movement, so changes in one area can influence how another area is loaded.
At Temple Human Performance, we combine manual therapy, movement assessment, corrective techniques, and progressive loading to address contributing movement patterns while gradually rebuilding the capacity to move with greater comfort and confidence.
We look at the entire kinetic chain, not just where it hurts.
Research supports progressive exercise as an important component of GTPS management.
A 2024 systematic review of six randomized controlled trials found that exercise improved pain, physical function, disease severity, and overall patient-reported outcomes, supporting exercise as a first-line treatment for GTPS.
https://www.physiotherapyjournal.com/article/S0031-9406%2824%2900002-6/fulltext?utm_
Managing aggravating loads while progressively improving hip strength and movement control can help the hip better tolerate everyday demands.
The goal is not simply to reduce irritation, but to gradually build the capacity needed to handle more load and movement.
Stay tuned as we will be sharing some practical techniques that will help relieve pain associated with Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome.
