[Andy Reed]

You are right – very similar symptoms – and in fact the two conditions very commonly co-exist. In fact, a lot of people are told they have hip bursitis when in fact it’s Gluteal Tendinopathy. Hip weakness – particularly in the abductors – contributes, as when we walk or run, we need strong hip abduction during the stance phase to maintain a level hip position and prevent hip drop on the other side (adduction) which essentially compresses the trochanteric bursa up against the outside of the femur. With repeated compression the bursa becomes swollen and irritated. Your PT should be able to prescribe exercises to improve your hip strength. NSAIDs and/or injections can be helpful into the bursa if it is slow to settle.