GTPS INJECTIONS
Treatment for Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome
Lateral hip pain can interfere with walking, sleeping on your side and everyday activity. At Alton Pain Clinic, we offer targeted injection treatments for Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS), a condition affecting the outer hip region, using ultrasound guidance to deliver precise relief and support recovery.
What Are GTPS and GTPS Injections?
GTPS is a term used to describe pain around the outer part of the hip, typically around the bony prominence called the greater trochanter. It often involves inflammation or degeneration of the gluteal tendons, the associated bursae, and the friction from the iliotibial band.
When conservative treatments (e.g., physiotherapy, activity modification) have not resolved the issue, we may administer an injection containing a corticosteroid (anti-inflammatory) and usually a local anaesthetic, directed to the inflamed bursa or tendon insertion.
The term “GTPS injection” refers to the targeted injection into the lateral hip region to relieve inflammation and pain.
Conditions Treated
We treat GTPS when symptoms include:
- Pain on the side of the hip/outer thigh, especially when lying on that side or climbing stairs.
- Tenderness over the greater trochanter when pressing that bony area.
Our targeted injection treatment is usually considered when the pain has lasted several weeks or has significantly impacted mobility or sleep.
The Procedure at Alton Pain Clinic
- Assessment & ultrasound scan: We begin with a full musculoskeletal evaluation of the hip and surrounding soft-tissues, supported by point-of-care ultrasound to visualise the bursa, tendons and other relevant anatomy.
- Preparation: The skin around the lateral hip is cleaned and sterilised.
- Ultrasound-guided injection: Using real-time ultrasound, our clinician guides a fine needle to the correct spot (for example, the trochanteric bursa or gluteal tendon insertion) and injects the corticosteroid plus local anaesthetic.
- Aftercare & follow-up: Most patients can go home the same day. We’ll advise on reducing load on the hip for 24-48 hours, and on follow-up physiotherapy/rehabilitation to maximise the benefit of the injection.
Benefits of GTPS injections
- Rapid pain relief: Many experience relief within days, enabling better sleep and mobility.
- Reduced inflammation: The corticosteroid targets the inflamed bursa or tendon insertion directly.
- Improved function: Once pain is reduced, patients can engage more effectively in physiotherapy, strengthening and rehabilitation.
- Minimally invasive: No hospital stay needed; procedure performed in-clinic.
- Enhanced precision: With ultrasound guidance, the injection is placed exactly where it’s required.
Important Considerations
While injections are highly effective for many, they are rarely a standalone cure. In most cases they work best when coupled with a physiotherapy programme aimed at strengthening hip-abductor muscles, improving biomechanics and reducing compressive forces.
As with all injections, there are risks (e.g., temporary soreness at injection site, brief increase in pain, in rare cases skin changes) which will be discussed prior to treatment.
What our patients say
FAQs
How long does the pain relief from a GTPS injection last?
Duration varies. Some patients get relief for several weeks or months. In many cases the injection provides an opportunity to engage fully in rehabilitation, which helps long-term outcomes.
Is the injection painful?
Most patients report minimal discomfort: the local anaesthetic helps reduce pain during the procedure, and ultrasound guidance means the needle placement is very precise.
Are there any side effects or precautions?
Side effects are uncommon but may include soreness at the injection site, temporary increase in pain, minor skin change or reaction. Your clinician will advise you about any relevant precautions (such as restricting strenuous activity for 24-48 hours).