What It Is: A Greater Trochanteric Bursa Injection is a procedure where a corticosteroid and a local anesthetic are injected into the bursa around the greater trochanter of the hip. The greater trochanter is a bony point on the side of your hip where several muscles attach, and the bursa is a fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion reducing friction between tissues of the body. This injection is aimed at reducing inflammation and pain caused by conditions such as bursitis.

How It Will Help: The injection delivers medication directly to the source of inflammation and pain, providing rapid relief. The corticosteroid reduces inflammation while the local anesthetic helps alleviate pain quickly, allowing you to lay on that side. This treatment can significantly improve mobility and decrease pain during daily activities, allowing patients to engage more effectively in physical therapy or resume normal activities with less discomfort such as sleeping on their favorite side and walking further distances.

Why It Is Safe: Greater Trochanteric Bursa Injections are considered safe and carry minimal risk when performed by an experienced healthcare provider. The use of imaging guidance, such as fluoroscopy, ensures precise placement of the injection, minimizing risks associated with incorrect needle placement. Common side effects are minor and might include temporary pain or swelling at the injection site. This procedure avoids systemic side effects often associated with oral steroids, making it a safer option for targeted symptom relief.