Hip Ultrasound scans
A hip / GTPS ultrasound scan is an accurate and highly effective way to diagnose the cause of pain on the outside of the hip. It provides a real-time, high-resolution view of the gluteal tendons, bursae, iliotibial band, and surrounding soft tissues. This helps identify conditions that may not be visible on X-ray and gives immediate clarity on the source of lateral hip pain.
Ultrasound is particularly useful for patients with:
Pain over the outside of the hip (especially when lying on that side)
Suspected Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS)
Gluteus medius or minimus tendinopathy
Suspected gluteal tendon tears
Trochanteric or subgluteal bursitis
Snapping or friction at the side of the hip
Pain walking, climbing stairs, or standing on one leg
Persistent lateral hip pain despite physiotherapy
What a Hip / GTPS Ultrasound Can Show
Gluteal Tendons (Gluteus Medius & Minimus)
Tendinopathy, partial or full-thickness tears, degeneration, and areas of inflammation.
Trochanteric & Subgluteal Bursae
Bursal swelling, fluid, thickening, and inflammation associated with GTPS.
Iliotibial Band (ITB)
Thickening, irritation, or friction of the ITB as it passes over the greater trochanter.
Tensor Fasciae Latae & Lateral Hip Muscles
Strains, soft-tissue injury, or post-impact changes following a fall.
Soft Tissue Masses
Assessment of lipomas, cysts, and other superficial lumps around the hip or upper thigh.
Superficial Joint & Capsule Changes
Effusion, synovial thickening, and early features associated with hip osteoarthritis.
Dynamic Assessment
Real-time imaging through movement helps identify snapping tendons, friction under the ITB, and painful mechanical changes.
Ultrasound provides immediate answers to help confirm the diagnosis and guide the right treatment approach.
Who This Scan Helps
This scan is ideal if you are experiencing:
Pain lying on your side at night
Pain over the outside of the hip during walking or stair climbing
Weakness, aching, or stiffness around the outer hip
Pain standing on one leg or doing single-leg exercises
Snapping or clicking at the side of the hip
Overuse symptoms or a recent fall onto the hip
Ongoing lateral hip pain despite physiotherapy or exercise
Difficulty returning to normal activity, running, or sport
Immediate Results + Treatment Options
You will receive:
A verbal explanation of the findings during the scan
A full written report with images
A discussion of treatment options, which may include:
Gluteal strengthening and targeted physiotherapy
Exercise-based rehabilitation and load modification
Ultrasound-guided steroid or bursal injection (if appropriate)
Shockwave therapy for persistent gluteal tendinopathy (if suitable)
Referral for MRI or specialist review when required