Introduction Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS) impacts on daily activity, work and quality of life. GTPS is prevalent in both active and sedentary populations, however it is unclear whether both groups have similar clinical presentations. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical characteristics for active and sedentary individuals with GTPS.

Materials and Methods An on-line survey of 261 adults with self-reported GTPS was conducted (Female 83%). Disability was measured using the VISA-G (range 0–100, 100 = no pain and disability) and psychological factors using the Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia (TSK-17) and Hospital Anxiety & Depression Scale. The number of health co-morbidities and pain intensity (0–10) during activity were also evaluated. Active individuals were classified as engaging in > 150 minutes of physical activity per week and sedentary individuals < 150 minutes of physical activity per week.

Results 80% of respondents were classified as active. Median (IQR) VISA-G scores were 65 (49–79) in the active group and 44 (33–56) in the sedentary group. Depression was more prevalent in sedentary individuals than active individuals (54% vs. 30%). Sedentary individuals also reported a greater number of health co-morbidities, Kruskal-Wallis (p=0.008) and higher pain intensity during walking, Kruskal-Wallis (p < 0.001).

Conclusion This was the first study to subgroup individuals with GTPS based on physical activity level. Sedentary individuals had higher disability, depression, health co-morbidities and increased pain during walking compared to active individuals. Further research is required to investigate subgroups in a clinical population with GTPS.