Lateral hip pain can make everyday activities-like walking, climbing stairs, or lying on your side-uncomfortable and frustrating. One frequently overlooked cause is Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS), a condition often resistant to traditional treatment. In this post, we explore how Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is emerging as an effective solution for managing GTPS.
Understanding Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome
Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS) refers to chronic pain over the outside of the hip, often caused by inflammation of the gluteal tendons or bursa near the greater trochanter (a bony prominence on the femur). It's especially common in middle-aged women and runners, and it can severely affect mobility. Standard treatments like physical therapy, NSAIDs, and corticosteroid injections may offer temporary relief-but often, symptoms return.
How PRP Therapy Works
Platelet-Rich Plasma therapy involves drawing a small sample of the patient’s own blood, processing it to concentrate the platelets, and injecting it directly into the affected area. Platelets are rich in growth factors that stimulate healing and reduce inflammation. Unlike steroid injections, which may weaken tissue over time, PRP supports long-term tissue regeneration.
Is PRP Effective for GTPS?
Research studies have shown promising outcomes for PRP in treating GTPS.1 Patients receiving PRP injections report improvements in pain levels, hip function, and quality of life-even months after treatment. In clinical settings, PRP has outperformed corticosteroids in long-term effectiveness and durability of symptom relief. Its regenerative benefits make it a compelling choice for those with chronic GTPS that hasn’t responded well to conservative care.2
What to Expect During PRP Treatment
PRP therapy is typically performed in an outpatient setting. After drawing and processing your blood, ultrasound guidance will be used to ensure precise delivery of PRP into the affected hip structures. The procedure takes about 30-45 minutes, and most patients return to light activity within a few days. Improvement may be gradual, with full results developing over 4-6 weeks.
At the American Hip Institute, our team specializes in advanced, evidence-based treatments for hip pain, including PRP therapy. We customize care plans for each patient to ensure optimal outcomes—whether you're an athlete, active professional, or simply seeking to regain your mobility.
AUTHOR: Benjamin Domb, MD, Founder and Medical Director at American Hip Institute, is an orthopedic surgeon specializing in Sports Medicine and Hip Arthroscopy. Dr. Domb is rated among the Top Doctors in the USA by the NY Times, US News & World Report, and Castle Connolly.
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