Trochanteric bursitis is inflammation of a thin lubricating sack (bursa) located on the side of the hip. While some conditions may predispose to the development of trochanteric bursitis (rheumatoid arthritis, hip joint disorders, tight iliotibial band), many people who develop trochanteric bursitis have no clear precipitating factor. Trochanteric bursitis can effect people of all ages and activity levels. In association with trochanteric bursitis, some people also develop degenerative changes or a tear in the adjacent abductor tendon (gluteus medius).
Trochanteric bursitis typically causes pain distributed to the outer thigh. The pain is often made worse by long walks, stair climbing or prolonged standing. Lying on the effected side often produces discomfort at night. Some patients also have weakness of the musclature about the hip, resulting in a limp or making them feel unstaedy when standing on one leg. Most patients with trochanteric bursitis do not recall a specific accident or event to cause their symptoms, rather a gradual onset of increasing discomfort over many weeks or months which fluctuates with activity levels. The pain can sometimes be quite severe.
The mainstay of treatment is effective and sustained physiotherapy. A short course of anti-inflammatory tablets and intermittent cortico-steroid injections can also be used to hasten recovery. Non operative treatments are effective for most patients with trochanteric bursitis, however the recovery usually takes a number of months.
Surgery is usually considered only after other treatments have been attempted and proven to be ineffective. Surgery is a safe and effective method of treating trochanteric bursitis and in most cases can be undertaken arthoscopically (key hole surgery). The tight band of tissue on the side of the hip (iliotibial band) is released and the inflammed bursa removed. Where necessary, repair of a torn or degenerate abductor tendon may also be conducted. As the surgery is performed by arthroscopic methods, recovery is relatively quick and only an overnight hospital stay is required.
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