Greater Trochanteric Bursa Injection

If you're experiencing pain on the outside of your hip, especially when lying on your side, walking, or climbing stairs, you may be dealing with greater trochanteric bursitis. A greater trochanteric bursa injection is a non-surgical treatment that can provide relief by reducing inflammation in the bursa. This guide explains what the procedure involves, who it's for, the benefits and risks, how to prepare, what to expect, and commonly asked questions.

 

What Is a Greater Trochanteric Bursa Injection?

A greater trochanteric bursa injection is a minimally invasive procedure in which a corticosteroid and often a local anesthetic are injected into the bursa located over the greater trochanter, which is the bony prominence on the side of the hip. This bursa can become irritated or inflamed due to:

• Repetitive movements or overuse

• Hip tendonitis or gluteal tendinopathy

• Leg length discrepancies

• Direct trauma or pressure on the hip

• Underlying hip osteoarthritis or spinal conditions

The purpose of the injection is to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and improve mobility and function.

 

Is a Greater Trochanteric Bursa Injection Right for Me?

You may benefit from this injection if:

• You have persistent pain on the outside of your hip

• Pain worsens with walking, standing, or lying on the affected side

• You’ve been diagnosed with trochanteric bursitis or gluteal tendinopathy

• Conservative treatments like oral anti-inflammatories, ice, activity modification, or physical therapy have not worked

• You want to delay or avoid surgery

 

Benefits of Greater Trochanteric Bursa Injections

Some of the key benefits include:

• Targeted relief of lateral hip pain

• Minimally invasive and done in an office or outpatient setting.

• May help improve walking, exercise, and sleep comfort

• Quick recovery time

• May help confirm the diagnosis of bursitis vs. other causes of hip pain

 

Risks of Greater Trochanteric Bursa Injections

While this procedure is generally safe, possible risks include:

• Temporary pain or soreness at the injection site

• Bruising or swelling

• Infection (rare)

• Allergic reaction to medication (rare)

• Post-injection flare-up that resolves within 1–2 days

• Skin thinning or tissue atrophy at the injection site (with repeated steroid use)

• Temporary numbness or tingling in the hip or thigh

Your provider will assess the risks and discuss any concerns based on your specific health needs.

 

How to Prepare for a Greater Trochanteric Bursa Injection

To prepare for your procedure:

• Inform your provider of any allergies, medications (especially blood thinners), or active infections

• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to allow access to your hip

• No fasting is required

• Arrange transportation if sedation or other medications will be used (usually not necessary)

• Continue most of your regular medications unless instructed otherwise
   

 

How Is a Greater Trochanteric Bursa Injection Performed?

The procedure usually takes 10–15 minutes and may be guided by ultrasound for accuracy.

Here’s what to expect:

1. Positioning: You’ll lie on your side or stomach, depending on your provider's preference.

2. Cleansing: The skin over the outer hip is cleaned to prevent infection.

3. Numbing: A local anesthetic may be used to reduce discomfort.

4. Injection: A thin needle is inserted into the bursa and a mixture of corticosteroid and anesthetic is injected.

5. Bandage: A small bandage is applied to the site.

The injection is typically well-tolerated and performed in a clinic setting.

 

Post-Procedure Care and Restrictions

After your injection:

• Limit strenuous activity for 24–48 hours

• Apply ice to the area if soreness occurs

• Avoid lying directly on the affected hip for the first day

• Resume normal activities gradually

• You may start to feel relief within a few hours to a few days

Contact your provider if you experience increasing redness, swelling, fever, or signs of infection.

 

How Long Will It Last? Will I Need More?

• Pain relief typically begins within 1–3 days, with full effects seen by 1 week

• Results can last weeks to several months

• Some patients may need repeat injections, especially in chronic or recurring cases

• Most providers limit steroid injections to 3–4 times per year per site to avoid tissue thinning

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Greater Trochanteric Bursa Injections

Q: Will the injection hurt?
A: You may feel a pinch or pressure, but most patients tolerate the procedure well. A local anesthetic is often used.

Q: Can I walk after the injection?
A: Yes. Most people can walk and resume light activity shortly after, but it’s best to avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours.

Q: Will this cure my hip pain?
A: The injection can provide significant relief, but if the underlying cause persists (like gluteal tendinopathy), further treatment or therapy may be needed.

Q: What if the injection doesn’t help?
A: If pain persists, your provider may explore other causes of hip pain such as spine issues, tendon tears, or intra-articular hip joint disorders.

Q: Is this injection used to diagnose the pain source?
A: Yes. If pain is relieved after the injection, it confirms that the bursa was a major contributor to your symptoms.

 

Summary

A greater trochanteric bursa injection is a safe, effective, and minimally invasive way to reduce lateral hip pain caused by bursitis or soft tissue inflammation. It offers quick relief, minimal downtime, and can even help your provider confirm the source of your pain. Whether used as a one-time treatment or part of a long-term plan, this injection can help restore comfort and mobility.

To learn more or schedule your consultation, [request an appointment here] or call us at 832-286-4546.