Current RMA Instruments

Changes from previous Instruments

ICD Coding

• ICD-10-AM code M70.6

Brief description

Trochanteric bursitis is a common condition involving inflammation of the bursa located at the greater trochanter at the hip (the lesser trochanter is not covered). The greater trochanter is the bony point on the side of the hip. The overlying bursa, which is a small fluid-filled sac, reduces friction annd cushions the areas between bones and th soft tissues above them. This bursa can become inflamed, resulting in trochanteric bursitis. 

Confirming the diagnosis

The diagnosis is based on the characteristic clinical history and examination findings. Radiological imaging (X-ray, ultrasound, MRI) may be useful to confirm the pathology and rule out other causes of lateral hip pain, particularly when the intial response to treatment does not appear to be helping the condition to resolve. However, imaging is not required to adequately establish the diagnosis. 

The relevant medical specialists include General Practitioners, Orthopaedic Surgeons or Rheumatologists.

Additional diagnoses covered by this SOP

• Nil

Additional diagnoses that may be covered by this SOP (but further information required)

• Greater trochanteric pain syndrome

Conditions excluded from this SOP

• Femoroacetabular impingement*
• Gluteus maximus tendinopathy#
• Gluteus medius tendinopathy*
• Gluteus minimus tendinopathy*
• Osteoarthritis of the hip*
• Piriformis syndrome#
• Snapping hip syndrome#

* another SOP applies  - the SOP has the same name unless otherwise specified

^# non-SOP condition

Clinical onset

Once the diagnosis is confirmed clinical onset can be backdated to when the symptoms first presented. This condition usually presents with pain at the side of the hip, which can sometimes radiates down the outside of the leg. The pain can be worsened with activities such as walking, climbing stairs or lying on the affected side. 

Clinical worsening

The natural history of the condition is to improve or resolve within one to two years in most subjects. The condition is generally responsive to conservative treatment (medications and injections), with surgery being required in some cases.