Diagnostic Imaging for Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome

Imaging Modalities

MRI can be used to assess peritrochanteric structures including the gluteus minimus and medius muscles, abductor tendons, and the trochanteric bursa in patients with hip and back pain, according to the American College of Radiology 1
Differentiation between bursitis and gluteus medius tendinosis may be difficult on imaging, and the two conditions may coexist, as noted by the American College of Radiology 1
Radiographs are usually the first imaging modality for assessment of hip pain, but they have limited sensitivity for soft tissue pathology, as stated by the American College of Radiology 2
MRI is the preferred imaging modality for evaluating soft tissue abnormalities around the hip when radiographs are negative or nondiagnostic, according to the American College of Radiology 3
Ultrasound can detect trochanteric bursitis and can guide diagnostic or therapeutic injections, as reported by the American College of Radiology 1

Diagnostic injection with lidocaine alone or in combination with corticosteroids can help confirm GTPS as the source of pain, according to the American College of Radiology 1