Gluteal Tendinopathy
Inflammation of the Gluteal Tendon Causing Hip Pain, Weakness, and Difficulty with Movement
Gluteal tendonitis, also known as gluteal tendinopathy, occurs when the tendons of the gluteal muscles, specifically the gluteus medius and gluteus minimus, become inflamed or irritated. These tendons connect the gluteal muscles to the hip bone and play a critical role in stabilising your hip and pelvis during movement. Gluteal tendonitis is a common cause of hip pain, particularly in middle-aged women and active individuals. The condition often results in pain on the outside of the hip and difficulty with activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or lying on the affected side.
CAUSES OF GLUTEAL TENDONITIS
Gluteal tendonitis typically develops due to overuse, improper movement, or underlying conditions.
The most common causes of gluteal tendonitis include:
- Overuse: Repetitive activities such as running, walking long distances, or standing for prolonged periods can place excessive strain on the gluteal tendons, leading to inflammation.
- Weak Hip Muscles: If the muscles around your hip are weak, the tendons may be subjected to greater stress, leading to tendonitis over time.
- Poor Biomechanics: Abnormal gait patterns or improper body mechanics during exercise can increase the strain on the gluteal tendons, contributing to the development of tendonitis.
- Hip Joint Problems: Conditions such as hip arthritis or bursitis can increase friction and irritation of the gluteal tendons, leading to inflammation.
- Trauma or Injury: A sudden fall or impact to the hip can cause damage to the tendons, resulting in tendonitis.
SYMPTOMS OF GLUTEAL TENDONITIS
The symptoms of gluteal tendonitis can vary depending on the severity of the inflammation but often include:
- Pain on the Outer Hip: The most common symptom is pain on the outside of the hip, which may extend down the side of the thigh. This pain may worsen with activities such as walking, running, or climbing stairs.
- Tenderness: You may feel tenderness or soreness when pressing on the outside of the hip.
- Pain When Lying on the Affected Side: Many people with gluteal tendonitis experience discomfort or pain when lying on the affected hip, making it difficult to sleep.
- Stiffness and Weakness: You may notice stiffness in the hip joint or weakness in the gluteal muscles, which can affect your ability to walk or stand.
- Difficulty with Daily Activities: Simple tasks like getting out of a chair or walking up a flight of stairs can become painful and challenging.
DIAGNOSIS OF GLUTEAL TENDONITIS
To diagnose gluteal tendonitis, Dr Liddell will begin with a thorough physical examination, assessing the strength and flexibility of your hip and gluteal muscles. He will also review your medical history and ask about any activities that may have contributed to your symptoms.
Imaging tests may be required to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions, such as bursitis or hip arthritis:
- Ultrasound: An ultrasound can provide a clear view of the tendons in the hip, helping to detect inflammation or damage to the gluteal tendons.
- MRI: An MRI may be used to get detailed images of the soft tissues in the hip, including the tendons, to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the damage.
GLUTEAL TENDONITIS TREATMENT OPTIONS
Treatment for gluteal tendonitis focuses on reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and restoring strength to the affected area.
NON-SURGICAL TREATMENTS
Most cases of gluteal tendonitis can be successfully managed with non-surgical treatments including:
- Rest and Activity Modification: Reducing or avoiding activities that aggravate your symptoms, such as running or standing for long periods, can give the tendons time to heal.
- Physiotherapy: A physiotherapist can design a targeted exercise program to strengthen the gluteal muscles and improve flexibility, which can help reduce pain and prevent recurrence.
- Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce inflammation and manage pain associated with gluteal tendonitis.
- Corticosteroid Injections: In cases of persistent pain, corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation and provide longer-term relief.
SURGICAL TREATMENTS
Surgery is rarely required for gluteal tendonitis, but in severe cases where non-surgical treatments are not effective, surgery may be considered to repair the damaged tendons. Dr Liddell will discuss surgical options with you if needed.
Gluteal tendonitis can cause significant discomfort and limit your ability to perform everyday activities. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help relieve pain, improve hip function, and prevent further damage to the tendons. Dr Liddell will work with you to develop a personalised treatment plan that aims to restore your strength and mobility, allowing you to return to your normal routine with improved comfort.