Conditions we diagnose and treat

Hip Bursitis Treatment in London

Available at LSRI Harley Street (W1G 9QJ) and LSRI Northwest London, Harrow (HA2 7SJ).

Pain on the outside of the hip is often called hip bursitis or trochanteric bursitis.

5.0 59 Google reviews
5/5 Doctify
Bupa Fee-assured
CQC Registered
GMC / FRCR Dr Prashant Sankaye, Consultant MSK Radiologist

We now know it usually comes from the gluteal tendons, which attach to the bony point on the side of the hip (the greater trochanter), with or without an inflamed bursa. Doctors call this greater trochanteric pain syndrome. It is especially common in women over 40 and in runners. At LSRI, Dr Prashant Sankaye, Consultant MSK Radiologist, uses ultrasound to find the source of pain and offers ultrasound-guided treatment where it is needed.

Why choose LSRI

Consultant-led care from Dr Prashant Sankaye, Consultant MSK Radiologist with more than 20 years’ experience.
Diagnosis and ultrasound-guided treatment from the same specialist.
Two clinics: LSRI Harley Street (W1G 9QJ) and LSRI Northwest London in Harrow (HA2 7SJ).
No GP referral needed, and all major insurers accepted.
After Dr Sankaye has reported your scan, you can have a free 5-minute video consultation to go through the results.

Last medically reviewed by Dr Prashant Sankaye, Consultant MSK Radiologist, on 2 October 2026.

Symptoms of hip bursitis

Pain and tenderness on the outside of the hip, which may spread down the outside of the thigh
Pain lying on the affected side, often disturbing sleep
Pain climbing stairs, walking uphill or standing on one leg
Pain after sitting with your legs crossed

How we diagnose hip bursitis

Your symptoms and an examination usually point to the diagnosis. Ultrasound shows whether the gluteal tendons are thickened or torn and whether the bursa is inflamed. MRI or X-ray may be used to rule out problems inside the hip joint or in the lower back that can cause similar pain. Read more about gluteal tendinopathy in runners.

What to expect at your appointment

Dr Sankaye reviews your symptoms and examines your hip.
The hip is scanned with ultrasound to find the exact source of pain.
You discuss the options, including exercises and whether an injection is right for you.
If you go ahead, the injection is guided by ultrasound.
You receive aftercare advice and guidance on your exercise programme.

Treatment options

A programme of education and targeted strengthening exercises for the hip muscles is the most effective long-term treatment. Small changes help too, such as avoiding crossing your legs and sleeping with a pillow between your knees. When pain is severe or not settling, options at LSRI include:

Ultrasound-guided steroid injection: can ease pain in the short term, which can make it easier to start exercises. It works best combined with a rehabilitation programme.
PRP (platelet-rich plasma): may be considered for longer-standing gluteal tendinopathy. Dr Sankaye will discuss whether it suits you.

Read more about tendon injections at LSRI.

Questions about hip bursitis

Is it hip arthritis or bursitis?

Arthritis inside the hip joint usually causes pain in the groin, while bursitis and gluteal tendinopathy cause pain on the outside of the hip. A scan can tell them apart.

Will a steroid injection cure it?

It can ease pain, but the problem often returns without strengthening exercises. The two together work best.

How long does it take to get better?

With a good exercise programme, many people improve over two to three months, although some cases take longer.

Should I stop exercising?

No, but you may need to change what you do for a while. Dr Sankaye can advise based on your scan.

Our clinics

Two clinics, one team

Dr Prashant Sankaye, Consultant MSK Radiologist, sees patients at Harley Street in central London and at our Northwest London clinic in Harrow. Call one number to book at either clinic.