Written and clinically reviewed by Dr. Chang-Min (Skye) Lee — Doctor of Science in Physical Therapy (DScPT), Board-Certified Orthopaedic Specialist (OCS), Fellow of the AAOMPT, and CMTPT — founder of SKYE Physiotherapy in Columbia, MD.
Pain on the outside of the hip — often labeled hip bursitis — is usually driven by irritated tendons and weak hip muscles, not just an inflamed bursa. Hip bursitis treatment in Columbia, MD targets the real cause so it settles for good.
It's usually the tendons, not just the bursa
Most lateral hip pain involves the gluteal tendons (greater trochanteric pain syndrome). Weakness and compressive positions irritate them, so strengthening — not rest or stretching into compression — is the fix.
How PT treats lateral hip pain
- Reduce compressive positions and calm irritation.
- Manual therapy as needed.
- Progressive glute and hip strengthening (the core).
- Fix gait and standing habits that overload the tendons.
What the evidence shows
Education plus progressive hip-abductor strengthening outperforms injections or rest alone for lasting relief of greater trochanteric pain.
Recovery timeline
Many people improve over 6–12 weeks with consistent strengthening.
Self-care you can start today
- Use a pillow between the knees when side-lying.
- Skip stretches that compress the outer hip.
- Begin gentle glute strengthening.
- Avoid hanging on one hip when standing.
What I'll assess at your first visit in Columbia
I'll confirm it's the gluteal tendons, test hip strength and gait, and identify the compressive positions — then start the loading plan that resolves it.
Related care at SKYE: Hip bursitis in Columbia, MD often responds well to manual physical therapy and dry needling for hip and glute muscles. You may also find my guides on piriformis syndrome and knee osteoarthritis helpful.