Greater Trochanteric Discomfort Relief Care
This article discusses non-surgical solutions for Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS), also known as gluteal tendinopathy, and its effective management at Chiropractic Specialty Center® (CSC) in Malaysia. GTPS involves discomfort around the hip joint, particularly in the iliotibial band (ITB) and the greater trochanter area, causing pain and limited movement. The article highlights the importance of addressing the root causes of discomfort, including muscle imbalances, spinal issues, and postural alignment.
CSC’s approach combines chiropractic care, physiotherapy-based rehabilitation, and advanced therapeutic technologies to treat GTPS, promoting long-term mobility and joint function. The article emphasizes that non-invasive care such as shockwave therapy, ultrasound, and rehabilitative exercises are more effective than steroid injections or surgery, which may offer only temporary relief and carry potential health risks.
A key focus of the care is addressing the muscles and tendons around the hip, such as the gluteus medius and minimus, and the tensor fasciae latae (TFL). By utilizing targeted therapies, CSC aims to improve hip stability, muscle strength, and flexibility. The article also stresses the need for accurate diagnosis and corrective care to avoid long-term complications and ensure successful recovery.
CSC’s comprehensive care helps patients recover from GTPS effectively and without invasive measures, offering a holistic approach that provides lasting relief and improved hip function.
Understanding Greater Trochanteric Discomfort
Greater trochanteric discomfort, also known as gluteal tendinopathy, is a common hip condition affecting the iliotibial band (ITB) and the outer hip area. The discomfort and tenderness associated with this condition often develop gradually, though it can also arise suddenly due to a traumatic event. This condition affects approximately two out of every 1,000 individuals, making it one of the most prevalent hip issues. It is more common in females and is frequently seen in individuals with obesity, arthritis, or existing lower back conditions.
Because this condition tends to persist over time, many clinicians refer to it by its acronym, GTPS. This article will provide information on holistic, non-surgical methods that address the underlying causes of GTPS.
What Does GTPS or Gluteal Tendinopathy Mean?
GTPS refers to greater trochanteric discomfort syndrome or gluteal tendinopathy. It is a broad term used to describe conditions affecting the hip joint near the greater trochanter, including the iliotibial band (ITB). The greater trochanter is a bony prominence on the outer side of the hip that serves as an attachment point for tendons from the spine, buttocks, hip, and leg muscles.
Because multiple muscles and tendons pass through this area, the greater trochanter plays a crucial role in mobility and stability. Individuals experiencing lower back discomfort, hip conditions, leg issues, spinal disc issues, or postural imbalances, such as scoliosis, often have some involvement of the greater trochanter.
Impact of Greater Trochanteric Discomfort on the Hip Joint
GTPS is a combination of conditions affecting the outer hip and iliotibial band. One of the most recognized components of GTPS is greater trochanteric bursitis. The shift from using the term trochanteric bursitis to GTPS reflects a broader understanding of the various factors contributing to discomfort in this area. Many conditions can lead to irritation and sensitivity in the outer hip, which is why a more inclusive term is now preferred.
If you are experiencing discomfort in your hip and are looking for effective, non-surgical solutions, contact our center at 03 2093 1000 for more information about our care options and locations. Let our experts provide the lasting relief you need today!
GTPS, Greater Trochanteric Bursitis & Lateral Hip Discomfort
Previously, lateral hip discomfort and GTPS were referred to as “trochanteric bursitis.” While both conditions involve inflammation of the bursa near the greater trochanter, the hip has multiple bursae and structures that can contribute to lateral hip discomfort or tenderness. This is why the term Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS) is now preferred—it encompasses a broader range of potential causes, including muscle issues, tears, and iliotibial band dysfunction (ITB-related discomfort).
The greater trochanteric bursa sits directly above the greater trochanter and provides cushioning for the muscular tendons that attach to this bony prominence. Trochanteric bursitis can arise from trauma, repetitive motion, or nerve-related issues, particularly those stemming from spinal conditions that cause muscular tension in the gluteal region.
Can GTPS Be Linked to Spinal Issues or Sciatica?
The short answer is yes. Spinal conditions, such as slipped discs, can lead to nerve irritation, resulting in discomfort or dysfunction in the hip. A compressed nerve, whether at its spinal origin or along its path, can contribute to or even directly cause GTPS symptoms.
This is an essential consideration for recovery—if your GTPS stems from a spinal issue and the focus remains solely on the hip, lasting relief may not be achieved. Without addressing the root cause, symptoms may persist or worsen. The key to recovery is an accurate diagnosis followed by targeted, holistic care that addresses both the spine and hip.
Rather than opting for temporary relief methods, seek a center that offers comprehensive corrective care. At our centers, we specialize in identifying and treating the underlying causes of hip and spinal discomfort, ensuring long-term recovery.
Bursitis: A Common Factor in Greater Trochanteric Discomfort (GTPS)
A bursa is a fluid-filled sac that cushions bones, muscles, ligaments, and skin, reducing friction between these structures. The body contains multiple bursae, particularly around joints like the hip. When irritated by trauma, tight clothing, or repetitive movements, these bursae can become inflamed, leading to a condition known as bursitis.
In the hip and gluteal region, several bursae can be affected, including:
- Subgluteus minimus bursa
- Subgluteus medius bursa
- Subgluteus maximus bursa (the largest bursa in the gluteal region)
- Greater trochanteric bursa
- Genitofemoral bursa
GTPS is considered a regional condition that can mimic discomfort caused by other issues, such as degenerative joint conditions. Some cases of GTPS may overlap with spinal problems or hip osteoarthritis. Studies indicate that up to one-third of individuals with lower back issues may also experience GTPS.
Symptoms of Greater Trochanteric Discomfort Syndrome (GTPS)
GTPS is often associated with persistent discomfort around the outer hip, gluteal region, and lateral hip. The discomfort may extend down the outside of the thigh toward the knee and, in some cases, even reach the lower leg. Patients with GTPS often experience point tenderness in the lateral hip, particularly where they feel the most discomfort. This sensitivity may be present over the gluteal tendons, bursae, or surrounding soft tissues, making it difficult to lie comfortably on the affected side.
Individuals with GTPS may find it difficult to move the leg outward against resistance or climb stairs without discomfort. In some cases, daily activities such as walking, running, or participating in sports become challenging. Our expert team of chiropractors and physiotherapists thoroughly assesses the lower back, spinal discs, buttocks, and hip joints to identify the underlying causes of discomfort and provide targeted care.
How Should Greater Trochanteric Discomfort Syndrome Be Managed or Treated?
The best approach to managing GTPS is through corrective care rather than just symptom relief. Many centers focus solely on temporary relief methods without addressing the root cause. This can allow the condition to progress, leading to long-term complications. Our approach focuses on accurate diagnosis and corrective care to resolve the underlying issues effectively.
Some individuals may recover from GTPS without intervention, but these cases are rare. Conservative care is most effective when based on an accurate diagnosis. Misdiagnosis is a leading cause of prolonged discomfort, so if you are experiencing persistent hip or buttock discomfort, visit us for a thorough evaluation.
Our expert chiropractors and physiotherapists in Kuala Lumpur specialize in diagnosing and treating GTPS. We provide guidance on activity modifications and biomechanical corrections, optimizing overall musculoskeletal health. Through targeted chiropractic and physiotherapy care, we address contributing factors related to the hip joint, buttocks, and, ensuring long-term recovery.
Conservative Care vs. Steroid Injections for Hip Discomfort
The most effective way to manage lateral hip discomfort is through a structured, conservative care program. Holistic care focus on addressing the underlying causes rather than just relieving symptoms. A combination of chiropractic care and physiotherapy offers the highest success rate, significantly outperforming standalone care.
Orthopedic interventions often involve medication or steroid injections, both of which introduce chemicals into the body that can have long-term adverse effects. GTPS has never been life-threatening, but steroid injections and long-term medication use have been linked to serious health risks. The best approach is targeted care that not only alleviates discomfort but also improves the hip’s mobility and function.
CSC’s Holistic Hip Care for Joint, Muscle, Ligaments, Tendons & Bursa
Our approach to physiotherapy and chiropractic care for lateral hip discomfort stands out because we focus on addressing the root cause. The gluteus medius, gluteus minimus, and tensor fasciae latae (TFL) are key muscles that contribute to hip stability and mobility. The gluteus minimus is also a crucial hip abductor, helping lift the leg away from the midline. Any dysfunction in these muscles can lead to significant hip movement restrictions.
GTPS patients frequently present with dysfunction or irritation of the iliotibial band (ITB), tensor fasciae latae (TFL), gluteus medius, and gluteus minimus muscles. Effective recovery requires a Careapproach that specifically addresses these structures. Without proper intervention, symptom relief remains temporary.
At Chiropractic Specialty Center®, we specialize in long-term recovery through expert chiropractic and physiotherapy care. Our care include ultrasound therapy, interferential current therapy, targeted rehabilitation, and shockwave therapy, all of which are superior to steroid injections or temporary symptom relief measures.
Choose CSC for Comprehensive Hip Care
We offer the most effective conservative care for lateral hip discomfort and Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS) in Malaysia. Our integrative approach ensures that you receive lasting relief without the need for injections or surgery. Contact us today to start your recovery journey.