What is Trochanteric Bursitis?
To understand what trochanteric bursitis is we first have to understand what both a trochanter and a bursa are. Trochanteric is referring to the greater trochanter, which is a bony prominence (or bump), on the outside of the femur near the hip. A bursa is a fluid filled sac that is designed to cushion tendons and reduce friction as they cross over bony areas. We have bursas throughout our body, but when discussing trochanteric bursitis we are looking at the bursa near the greater trochanter, so on the outside of the leg near the hip. The tendons involved are typically both the gluteus medius and the IT band tendons. When this bursa becomes irritated or inflamed, it can cause localized pain and discomfort on the outside of the hip. This condition can significantly impact mobility and quality of life if left unaddressed.