Trochanteric bursitis is characterized by painful inflammation of the bursa located just superficial to the greater trochanter of the femur. Patients typically complain of lateral hip pain, although the hip joint itself is not involved. The pain may radiate down the lateral aspect of the thigh. It may occur as a result of direct trauma to the side of the hip or co-exist in people who have osteoarthritis (degenerative joint disease) of the hips or lower back. It may also occur in some people who have scoliosis or unequal leg length. Most people who suffer from trocanteric bursitis have difficulty walking. Many will walk with a limp, and some will find that they cannot walk at all, due to the intensity of pain. All patients complain of aching over the trochanteric area and lateral thigh. This pain may be acute at the onset of the disease, or it may build up gradually over time, sometimes lasting for many months or even years. In chronic cases, discomfort may be more vague and it may be difficult to describe its exact location. Walking with the legs apart will help but it is rarely done except at home because it looks different.