Greater trochanter pain syndrome (GTPS) is gradual or acute idiopathic (unknown) pain that occurs on the lateral side of the hip. However, it is believed that GTPS is caused by abnormal hip biomechanics, which are compressive forces causing impingement of the gluteal tendons and bursa on the greater trochanter by the iliotibial (IT) band as the hip moves into adduction. Compressive forces are increased where there is weakness in the hip abductor muscles due to lateral pelvic tilt. Patients with GTPS will present to the clinic with complaints of chronic, intermittent, debilitating pain in the lateral hip, thigh, and buttock that radiates to the knee. The pain is aggravated with weight bearing activity on
the affected side. Patients will report a decrease in physical activity, a decline in general health, an inability to work, and a negative change in lifestyle. GTPS is seen more commonly in females between the ages 40 and 60 years old.
Greater trochanter pain
Greater trochanter pain syndrome (GTPS) may be reproduced on assessment by pressing on areas on the side of the hip and thigh. The pain may radiate down the lateral thigh. Furthermore, the pain should not radiate to the foot. GTPS is diagnosed with a hip X-ray, an ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Images from these diagnostic tests may reveal fluid-filled and thickened trochanteric bursa with inflammation, tendinopathy, or tears within the gluteal medius or gluteus maximus tendon. There is no defined treatment protocol for GTPS. The treatment plan of GTPS is the management of decreased compressive force across the greater trochanter by the stretching of gluteal muscle, weight loss, and physical therapy combined with pain management with NSAIDs, ice, and rest.
background using for health care concept.
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