Gluteal Tendinopathy

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Gluteal tendinopathy, also known as hip bursitis or greater trochanteric pain syndrome, is a condition that affects the tendons and muscles in the buttock area. It is a common cause of hip pain, especially in middle-aged women.

Symptoms and Signs

The most common symptom of gluteal tendinopathy is pain on the outer side of the hip, which may radiate down the thigh. This pain may be worse when lying on the affected side, climbing stairs, or standing up after prolonged sitting. Some people may also experience stiffness and difficulty moving the hip joint.

Causes

The exact cause of gluteal tendinopathy is not clear, but it is thought to be related to repetitive overuse or poor biomechanics. It may also be associated with other conditions such as osteoarthritis, lower back pain, or hip impingement syndrome.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of gluteal tendinopathy is usually based on the patient's symptoms, medical history, and a physical examination. Imaging tests such as ultrasound or MRI may also be used to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment:

Treatment options for gluteal tendinopathy may include a combination of exercise, physiotherapy, and medication. Rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medication can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Physiotherapy exercises can also help improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion of the hip joint. A physiotherapist may also use manual therapy techniques such as massage or joint mobilization to help alleviate pain and improve function.

Exercises:

Some exercises that may be helpful in the treatment of gluteal tendinopathy include:

1. Clamshell exercise: Lie on your side with your legs bent and your feet together. Keeping your feet together, lift the top knee up towards the ceiling, then lower it back down.
2. Bridging exercise: Lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Lift your hips up towards the ceiling, then lower them back down.
3. Side-lying leg lift: Lie on your side with your legs straight. Lift the top leg up towards the ceiling, then lower it back down.
4. Hip flexor stretch: Kneel on one knee with the other foot in front of you. Lean forward, keeping your back straight, until you feel a stretch in the front of your hip.

It is important to note that exercises should be prescribed and monitored by a qualified physiotherapist to ensure proper technique and progression of exercises over time.