The typical patient reports pain on lying on that side, climbing stairs, walking long distances or standing up after sitting. It is diagnosed on examination and, if needed, with ultrasound or MRI.
The great majority improve without surgery: physiotherapy focused on strengthening the glutes, correcting gait mechanics, pain control and, in selected cases, guided injections. What matters is a precise diagnosis, because treating the tendon is different from treating the bursa or a spinal problem.
Dr. Kushner’s approach: most of these lateral hip pains do not need surgery; they need a correct diagnosis and a well-directed strengthening programme. Surgery is reserved for the few cases that do not respond.
What if the pain is coming from somewhere else?
Hip and spine are often confused. Answer six questions and bring the summary to your appointment. (In Spanish.)
When to seek care without waiting
- Pain that comes on suddenly and stops you bearing weight, especially after a stumble or a fall.
- Fever with a hot, swollen, very painful hip: joint infection must be ruled out.
- Night pain that does not settle at rest and worsens week after week.
- Unexplained weight loss, or a history of cancer.
- Numbness or tingling running down the leg, or weakness that is getting worse.
What it gets confused with
| Finding | Gluteal tendinopathy | Hip osteoarthritis | Lumbar spine |
|---|---|---|---|
| Where it hurts | Side of the hip, tender to one finger | Groin | Low back and buttock |
| Characteristic sign | It hurts to lie on that side | It hurts to put shoes on | It hurts after walking a distance |
| On palpation | Very tender over the trochanter | Not tender to touch | Not tender to touch |
| Hip rotation | Preserved | Limited and painful | Preserved |
Frequently asked questions
Is it hip osteoarthritis?
Almost never. Lateral pain usually comes from the tendons or the bursa, not from the joint cartilage, which hurts more in the groin.
Does an injection cure it?
It helps control pain in selected cases, but the underlying treatment is strengthening and correcting mechanics.
How long does it take to improve?
This is a tendon problem, and tendons respond slowly: progressive loading programmes are measured in months, not weeks. Consistency matters more than intensity.
Should I just have an injection?
A trial compared corticosteroid injection, a programme of education and exercise with load modification, and simple observation. The injection relieves pain quickly, but the exercise programme holds the result better over time.
Can I sleep on that side?
Early on it is best avoided, and a pillow between the knees helps when sleeping on your side. Crossing your legs and standing with your weight on one hip also compress the tendon.
References
Book your assessment
Book a consultation with Dr. Kushner at COMEDSA. Bring any previous imaging for a complete assessment.
Educational information reviewed by Dr. Michael Kushner Shrem. It does not replace an in-person medical assessment.