There is No Risk to see what we can do for you — New Patient Special Offer →

Hip bursitis — outer hip pain that worsens with walking, lying on the side, or climbing stairs — responds well to a combination of pelvic correction and regenerative therapies that address the underlying cause.
Greater trochanteric bursitis (GTBS) involves inflammation of the bursa sac overlying the greater trochanter of the femur — the bony prominence on the outer hip. The IT band and gluteal tendons pass over this bursa, and repetitive friction from pelvic imbalance or muscular tightness causes bursal inflammation. GTBS is now more accurately understood as greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS) — recognizing that gluteal tendinopathy is often the primary pathology rather than pure bursitis. Pelvic imbalance from lumbar or SI joint dysfunction creates asymmetric IT band tension and gluteal tendon overload. Correcting the pelvic cause is essential for lasting relief.
Dr. Foss corrects the pelvic imbalance driving abnormal IT band and gluteal tendon loading through SOT Category II adjustments. Hip joint and lumbar corrections restore normal femoral mechanics. Myofascial release targeting the IT band, TFL, and gluteal muscles reduces compressive bursal loading. Regenerative therapies are applied to the trochanteric bursa and gluteal tendon insertion to reduce inflammation and stimulate tissue repair. Hip abductor strengthening exercises are provided as home care to prevent recurrence.
At Pura Vida Chiropractic, Dr. Foss uses Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT) — a gentle, category-based system that addresses the spine, pelvis, and craniosacral rhythm as one integrated unit. SOT restores proper biomechanics, reduces nerve interference, and creates the neurological environment your body needs to heal itself.
For many patients, combining spinal correction with regenerative therapies produces faster and more lasting results. Depending on your condition, Dr. Foss may incorporate one or more of the following:
High-energy acoustic waves penetrate deep into tissue to break up calcifications, stimulate collagen production, and accelerate the body's natural repair process — all without surgery or downtime.
Patented unfocused shock waves spread over a broad treatment area to reduce inflammation, increase blood flow, and activate stem cells — promoting cellular regeneration and long-term pain relief.
Photobiomodulation with a 10–15W Class IV laser delivers therapeutic light energy deep into tissue, reducing inflammation, blocking pain signals, and speeding healing at the cellular level.
Pura Vida Chiropractic is a family-friendly, bilingual (English/Spanish) clinic serving San Antonio, TX. Dr. Dan Foss is trained in Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT), a comprehensive chiropractic system that addresses the whole body — not just the area of pain. We combine hands-on spinal correction with the latest regenerative technology to help patients resolve the root cause of their condition rather than masking symptoms.
We are insurance friendly. Bring your insurance card and ID to the office to verify how your insurance can contribute to your care. New patient appointments are available promptly.
Comparing options? See how to choose a chiropractor near me in San Antonio or read our guide on how to choose the best chiropractor in San Antonio.
Hip bursitis (trochanteric bursitis) develops when the bursa between the greater trochanter and the IT band becomes inflamed, often driven by gluteus medius weakness, hip biomechanics, leg-length asymmetry, prolonged side-lying, and sometimes prior hip surgery. The pain typically radiates down the lateral thigh and worsens with side-lying.
Dr. Foss addresses the pelvic and hip biomechanics driving the bursitis — sacral torsion correction, gluteus medius activation, and IT-band release. SoftWave shockwave therapy has strong evidence for chronic trochanteric pain. Class IV laser reduces local bursa inflammation. Most patients avoid corticosteroid injection with combined care.
Acute hip bursitis often resolves in 6–10 visits over 4–6 weeks. Chronic cases (>3 months) typically need 12–16 visits with SoftWave added. Cases driven by significant leg-length asymmetry may benefit from orthotic evaluation alongside chiropractic care.
Yes. SOT and pelvic correction are low-force and well-tolerated. SoftWave and Class IV laser are FDA-cleared with excellent safety profiles. Dr. Foss screens for hip joint pathology (labral tear, advanced arthritis) warranting orthopedic evaluation when symptoms suggest something other than bursitis.
Schedule your new patient appointment with Dr. Foss at Pura Vida Chiropractic in San Antonio, TX. We'll identify the root cause and build a personalized care plan.
Book Your AppointmentChat with us on WhatsApp
Typically replies within minutes