Ultrasound-Guided Cortisone Injection for Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome

 Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS) is a condition that causes discomfort on the outer side of the hip. It is usually linked to irritation or inflammation of the tendons and bursa that sit around the greater trochanter — the bony prominence on the side of the hip.

People with GTPS often notice pain when lying on the affected side, climbing stairs, or getting up after sitting for a long time. Because it can interfere with movement and daily life, managing the condition effectively is important.

At Alton Pain Clinic, clinicians provide thorough assessment and use ultrasound-guided cortisone injections as one option to help manage GTPS.

Anatomy of the Hip and Greater Trochanter

The hip joint is a ball-and-socket joint formed by the femur (thigh bone) and pelvis. On the outside of the femur sits the greater trochanter, a bony landmark where important hip muscles attach, including the gluteus medius and gluteus minimus.

A small fluid-filled sac, called the bursa, lies close to these tendons. The bursa acts as a cushion to reduce friction when the hip moves. In GTPS, either the tendons, the bursa, or both can become irritated, leading to pain around the outer hip.

Pathology of GTPS

GTPS usually develops through a combination of factors rather than one single cause. These may include:

  • Strain or degeneration of the gluteal tendons.
  • Inflammation of the trochanteric bursa.
  • Repetitive stress from running, stair climbing, or long periods of standing.
  • Muscle weakness or imbalance affecting hip movement.

Over time, these issues can make the hip sore, stiff, and sensitive to pressure.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms of GTPS are:

  • Pain on the outside of the hip, which may spread down the thigh.
  • Pain when lying on the affected side.
  • Tenderness over the greater trochanter when pressed.
  • Discomfort when walking, climbing stairs, or standing after sitting.
  • A feeling of stiffness or reduced movement.

Risk Factors

Certain factors may increase the likelihood of developing GTPS, such as:

  • Repetitive activities that involve the hip.
  • Weak hip stabilising muscles.
  • Changes in walking style or posture.
  • Previous hip, knee, or back issues.
  • More common in middle-aged individuals and women, though it can affect anyone.

Diagnosis

A clinician at Alton Pain Clinic will usually begin with a detailed history and physical examination. This may involve:

  • Discussing your symptoms and activities.
  • Pressing over the greater trochanter to identify tenderness.
  • Checking hip movement and strength.
  • Using ultrasound if more information is needed.

Management of GTPS

There are several ways to help manage GTPS, depending on how severe it is and how it affects daily life. Options may include:

  • Rest and changes in activity.
  • Supportive footwear or orthotics.
  • Pain management strategies.
  • Cortisone injections for inflamed tendons or the bursa.
  • In rare cases, surgery may be considered.

Role of Ultrasound-Guided Cortisone Injections

At Alton Pain Clinic, cortisone injections are performed using ultrasound guidance. Ultrasound gives a live image of the hip, allowing the clinician to place the injection with accuracy.

This ensures the cortisone reaches the inflamed tendon or bursa directly, supporting a precise and targeted approach.

Mechanism of Action of Cortisone

Cortisone belongs to a group of medicines known as corticosteroids. When injected into the affected area, cortisone works by:

  • Reducing local inflammation.
  • Calming irritated tissues.
  • Decreasing swelling in the tendon or bursa.

Ultrasound guidance ensures the cortisone is placed in exactly the right location.

Benefits of Ultrasound Guidance

Using ultrasound during injections provides several benefits:

  • Real-time visualisation of hip structures.
  • Accurate placement of cortisone.
  • Avoiding nearby nerves or blood vessels.
  • Supporting a safe and precise procedure.

Why Choose Alton Pain Clinic for GTPS

At Alton Pain Clinic, clinicians focus on accurate diagnosis and safe, effective treatment. With expertise in ultrasound-guided injections, the clinic ensures that each procedure is carefully planned and delivered with precision.

This approach allows treatment to be tailored to each individual’s needs, providing a supportive environment for managing conditions such as GTPS.

Conclusion

Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome is a common cause of outer hip pain, often linked to tendon irritation or bursitis. It can limit mobility and daily activities, but several management options are available.

At Alton Pain Clinic, ultrasound-guided cortisone injections are one of the targeted options offered to help manage this condition. By combining detailed assessment with precise ultrasound-guided techniques, clinicians provide a focused and patient-centred approach to care.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Ultrasound-Guided Cortisone Injections for Baxter’s Nerve Entrapment

Image
  Introduction Baxter’s Nerve Entrapment , also known as inferior calcaneal nerve entrapment, is a condition that can contribute to chronic heel pain. It is often misdiagnosed as plantar fasciitis due to the overlap in symptoms. The condition arises when the first branch of the lateral plantar nerve, known as Baxter’s nerve, becomes compressed or irritated. Anatomy of Baxter’s Nerve Baxter’s nerve is a branch of the lateral plantar nerve, which originates from the tibial nerve. This small but significant nerve travels along the medial aspect of the heel and innervates the abductor digiti minimi muscle of the foot. Due to its anatomical course, Baxter’s nerve is prone to compression between the deep fascia of the abductor hallucis muscle and the medial calcaneal tuberosity. Pathology and Causes of Entrapment Baxter’s nerve entrapment  occurs when the nerve is compressed or irritated due to various factors, including: Repetitive stress and overuse  — Activities such as prol...
Read more

Ultrasound-Guided Cortisone Injections for Achilles Tendinopathy

Image
  Achilles tendinopathy   is a common condition affecting the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. This condition is characterised by pain, stiffness, and reduced function in the tendon, often developing due to repetitive strain or overuse. While it is prevalent among athletes, particularly runners, it can also affect individuals who engage in activities that place excessive stress on the tendon. Management options for  Achilles tendinopathy  vary depending on the severity and chronicity of the condition. Among the available treatment modalities, ultrasound-guided cortisone injections have gained attention as a potential intervention for managing tendon-related pain and inflammation. This blog will provide a comprehensive overview of Achilles tendinopathy, including its anatomy, pathology, risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis, and various management approaches. It will also explore the role of ultrasound-guided cortisone injections in manag...
Read more

Ultrasound-Guided Cortisone Injections for Heel Bursitis

Image
  Introduction Heel bursitis  is a condition that affects the bursae, which are small fluid-filled sacs that cushion and reduce friction between bones, tendons, and muscles. Inflammation of these bursae in the heel region can result in significant pain and discomfort, impacting daily activities such as walking, running, and standing for extended periods. Heel bursitis  can occur due to repetitive stress, excessive pressure, or biomechanical abnormalities. While various treatment options exist,  ultrasound-guided cortisone injections  have been used to target inflammation with precision. Anatomy of the Heel The  heel  is a complex structure composed of bones, soft tissues, and bursae. Key anatomical components include: Calcaneus (heel bone)  — The largest bone in the foot, responsible for weight-bearing. Achilles tendon  — Connects the calf muscles to the heel bone and plays a crucial role in movement. Retrocalcaneal bursa  — Located betw...
Read more