Gluteal tendinopathy

Overview

Gluteal tendinopathy is the most common cause of lateral hip pain. It involves overload of the gluteal tendons at the side of the hip and is common in middle age, responding well to load management and progressive strengthening.

Symptoms

• Pain on the outside of the hip
• Pain lying on the affected side
• Discomfort with stairs and prolonged standing
• Tenderness over the bony point on the hip

Causes

• Compressive postures (crossing legs, hanging on one hip)
• Sudden increase in walking or running load
• Hip and gluteal weakness

Treatment

• Avoiding compressive positions
• Progressive gluteal strengthening
• Load and activity management
• Injection as an adjunct in some cases