Musculoskeletal
Medicines for Greater trochanteric pain syndrome
Pain on the outer side of the hip, often from irritation of the tendons and tissues over the hip bone — usually improving with load management and exercises.
Education and reference only. This explains which medicines are used and why, in plain language — it deliberately contains no doses and is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always discuss your own treatment with a qualified clinician, and check the BNF and the product labelling for prescribing detail.
Quick answer
What is Greater trochanteric pain syndrome?
Greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS) is a common cause of pain on the outer (lateral) side of the hip, over the bony prominence of the upper thigh bone (the greater trochanter). It was traditionally called "trochanteric bursitis", but it is now understood that the pain usually comes from irritation, overload or degeneration of the tendons of the buttock muscles (the gluteal tendons) where they attach here, sometimes with inflammation of the nearby cushioning sacs (bursae).
- How it is treated: GTPS usually responds to a conservative approach, and understanding that it is a tendon-overload problem (rather than simple "bursitis") guides treatment.
- Self-care: Strengthening exercises for the hip and gluteal muscles (guided by a physiotherapist), avoiding aggravating positions (prolonged standing on one leg, crossing legs, lying on the painful side — a pillow between the knees helps), managing weight, and pain relief all help GTPS.
- When to seek help: See a physiotherapist or GP about persistent pain on the outer side of the hip, especially if it disturbs sleep or limits walking, for assessment and a strengthening programme.
What it is
Greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS) is a common cause of pain on the outer (lateral) side of the hip, over the bony prominence of the upper thigh bone (the greater trochanter). It was traditionally called "trochanteric bursitis", but it is now understood that the pain usually comes from irritation, overload or degeneration of the tendons of the buttock muscles (the gluteal tendons) where they attach here, sometimes with inflammation of the nearby cushioning sacs (bursae). It causes pain and tenderness over the outer hip, which can spread down the outer thigh, and is often worse when lying on that side (disturbing sleep), walking, climbing stairs, or standing for a long time. It is more common in women, in middle age and beyond, and with factors such as tendon overload, weakness of the hip muscles, being overweight, and other hip or lower-limb problems. It is not usually serious but can be persistent and affect daily life and sleep.
How it is treated
GTPS usually responds to a conservative approach, and understanding that it is a tendon-overload problem (rather than simple "bursitis") guides treatment. The most effective approach is a structured exercise programme, guided by a physiotherapist, focusing on strengthening the hip and gluteal muscles and correcting how the hip is loaded, along with education on managing the load on the tendons. Modifying aggravating activities and positions helps — for example avoiding prolonged standing on one leg, crossing the legs, or lying directly on the painful side (using a pillow between the knees can help). Weight loss where relevant reduces load. Simple pain relief eases symptoms, and a steroid injection can help settle a painful flare in some cases, though it does not address the underlying tendon issue, so exercise remains central. Recovery can take time and consistency. Injections and, rarely, surgery are reserved for persistent cases. The reassuring message is that outer hip pain from GTPS is common, not usually serious, and generally improves with strengthening exercises and load management.
For this condition, these medicines
Medicine classes used for Greater trochanteric pain syndrome
Each links to a full, dose-free guide — what it is, how it works, who can and cannot use it, side effects, interactions and FAQs.
Beyond medication
Lifestyle and self-care
Strengthening exercises for the hip and gluteal muscles (guided by a physiotherapist), avoiding aggravating positions (prolonged standing on one leg, crossing legs, lying on the painful side — a pillow between the knees helps), managing weight, and pain relief all help GTPS.
When to get help
When to see a doctor
See a physiotherapist or GP about persistent pain on the outer side of the hip, especially if it disturbs sleep or limits walking, for assessment and a strengthening programme. Seek assessment for hip pain after a fall or with inability to weight-bear, which suggest a different problem.
Not sure how urgent it is? It is always OK to call NHS 111 for advice, day or night.
Answers
Greater trochanteric pain syndrome: frequently asked questions
What causes pain on the outer side of the hip?
Often greater trochanteric pain syndrome — usually from irritation or overload of the gluteal tendons (and sometimes nearby bursae) over the hip bone. It is more common in women and middle age, and with tendon overload, hip muscle weakness or excess weight.
How is greater trochanteric pain treated?
Mainly with a strengthening exercise programme for the hip muscles (guided by a physiotherapist) and managing the load on the tendons, plus avoiding aggravating positions, weight management and pain relief. A steroid injection can help a flare, but exercise is central.
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Hip pain
- NICE CKS — Greater trochanteric pain syndrome
Related conditions
Browse by body system
Building a patient-information or formulary resource?
We create evidence-led, dose-free clinical references and decision aids for teams.