Common causes
- Gluteal tendon irritation or tearing associated with load and compression.
- Trochanteric bursitis, often alongside tendon problems.
- Hip osteoarthritis or labral injury causing groin or deep hip pain.
- Referred pain from the lower back or sacroiliac joint.
- Less commonly, stress injury or inflammatory conditions requiring further assessment.
How we evaluate
History covers the location and behavior of pain, its relationship to lying, walking and stairs, and any back symptoms. A hands-on osteopathic and physiatric examination assesses hip motion, tendon and bursa tenderness, strength, gait and the lumbar spine. Prior imaging is reviewed in context, and diagnostic ultrasound can examine the gluteal tendons and bursa and guide selected procedures. Atraumatic inability to bear weight, night pain or systemic symptoms prompt a different assessment pathway before routine care.
Treatment options
we may discuss.
Performance Health / rehabilitation
Rehabilitation may address gluteal strength, hip control, gait and modification of the positions that compress the tendon and bursa. Education about load management is a core part of care for outer hip pain. Most hip pain and bursitis can be managed without surgery; a surgical opinion is sought only for significant structural findings or persistent limitation that truly calls for it.
Regenerative & Cell-Based Medicine
When appropriate, PRP may be discussed for selected gluteal tendon problems, and prolotherapy for selected ligament-related contributors, with evidence that varies by diagnosis. Cell-based and biologic options require a separate review of evidence, risks and applicable law. These options are considered within a rehabilitation-centered plan rather than as standalone treatments.
Targeted Pain Management
Medication review and precise, ultrasound-guided procedures may address an identified pain source. When it's needed, a steroid injection can calm a clearly inflamed bursa, used judiciously near tendons. Nerve-targeted procedures are reserved for a relevant focal indication. Procedures are image-guided, using ultrasound or X-ray guidance depending on the target.
From the Journal
Related conditions
Common
questions.
When to seek
care urgently.
Seek urgent medical care for inability to bear weight after a fall, a hot swollen hip with fever, or severe hip pain with numbness or a cold foot.
This page is general information, not medical advice. Individual results vary. Medical Disclaimer