Lateral hip pain is a common problem that can be frustrating, often interfering with everyday activities like walking or climbing stairs. One of the main reasons people experience this type of pain is Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS), which affects the outer part of the hip, thigh, and buttock. Multiple injuries can cause pelvic pain, and it is important to always get properly diagnosed by a qualified physician, such as a registered chiropractor in Hong Kong. Indeed, besides Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome, lesions including sacroiliac sprain and many more can cause pain in the lateral hip area.
It’s important to understand what might be the underlying injury and how treatments, including chiropractic care, can help relieve the discomfort. In this blog, we’ll explore the causes of GTPS, the symptoms to look for, and how chiropractic treatments can play a key role in managing the pain.
What is Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS)?
Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS) is a condition that involves pain and discomfort along the outer side of the hip, often radiating down the thigh or into the buttock. GTPS occurs when the soft tissues, such as muscles, tendons, and bursae over the outer thigh bone, become irritated or injured. While GTPS can affect anyone, it is particularly common in middle-aged individuals and women. It is estimated that 10-25% of the general population may suffer from this condition.
What are the Symptoms of GTPS?
If you are dealing with lateral hip pain, the symptoms of GTPS may look like this:
- Pain on the outer side of the hip, thigh, or buttock.
- Increased pain with movement: Activities like walking, climbing stairs, or standing up from a seated position can worsen the pain.
- Tenderness to touch: The outer hip area may be sore when pressed.
- Limited range of motion.
- Radiating pain: The pain can sometimes travel down the thigh, making it difficult to pinpoint the exact area of discomfort.
What are the Causes of Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome?
Several factors can contribute to the development of Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome. Some common causes include:
- Repetitive stress: Overuse or repetitive stress on the hip muscles and tendons is a leading cause.
- Poor biomechanics or altered gait: Improper movement patterns can place excessive strain on the hip region.
- Trauma or injury: An acute injury to the hip can also lead to GTPS.
- Obesity: Excess body weight places extra stress on the hip and pelvis, increasing the likelihood of GTPS.
- Overuse without recovery: Failing to rest the hip muscles after strenuous activity can result in inflammation and pain.
How Chiropractic Care Can Help Manage GTPS?
If you are suffering from lateral hip pain caused by GTPS, chiropractic care can be an effective treatment option. When you look for a chiropractor in Hong Kong to help you with your GTPS, make sure to find a team that commonly treats upper and lower limb disorders, and not exclusively spinal injuries. At Agape Chiropractic Hong Kong, we see a lot of GTPS cases. Indeed, we specialize in assessing the musculoskeletal system in its entirety and can help correct any imbalances or dysfunctions that may be contributing to this condition.
- Manual Therapy
Chiropractors can use soft tissue techniques and joint mobilizations to enhance the flexibility and function of the hip muscles and surrounding structures. These techniques can help alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and restore normal function to the affected area.
- Corrective Exercises
One of the core components of chiropractic care for GTPS is strengthening the muscles around the hip joint. Chiropractors can design a customized exercise program to improve hip stability and correct any movement patterns that may be aggravating the condition.
- Posture Correction
Improper posture often places extra strain on the hip joint. Chiropractors can guide you in maintaining good posture during everyday activities, which can significantly alleviate pain and reduce the risk of developing further musculoskeletal issues.
- Nutritional Guidance
Inflammation in the hip joint can sometimes be aggravated by poor dietary and lifestyle habits. Chiropractors can offer dietary recommendations to help alleviate inflammation and support the body’s natural healing process.
- Lifestyle Modifications
To prevent worsening of symptoms, chiropractors can suggest practical lifestyle changes. This may include adjustments to your footwear, modifications to your work habits, or changes in your exercise routine that promote hip health and reduce stress on the joints, muscles, and tendons.
Conclusion
If you’re struggling with Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS) or lateral hip pain, Agape Chiropractic Hong Kong is here to help. Our chiropractic care, with gentle treatments, exercises, and posture tips, can help address the cause of your pain and help improve your mobility.
