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Gluteal Tendinopathy

 

Gluteal tendinopathy is a common cause of pain on the outside of the hip and is sometimes also referred to as trochanteric bursitis, greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS), or lateral hip pain. It occurs when the tendons of the gluteal muscles, which support and move your hip, become irritated or damaged—often due to overuse, weakness, or excessive pressure on the hip tendons. It can be extremely debilitating and can have a large impact on your quality of life- preventing you from doing daily activities or things that you love.

 

The pain is usually felt on the outer side of the hip, sometimes radiating down the side of the thigh or buttock. It can feel worse when lying on your side, walking, climbing stairs, or standing for long periods, and many people experience stiffness or aching in the morning or after sitting for a long time. This condition can make everyday activities more challenging, including walking or running (especially long distances or on uneven ground), climbing stairs, standing for extended periods, getting in and out of a car, and even sleeping on the affected side.
 
If you’re struggling with persistent gluteal tendinopathy, specialist physiotherapy can help by identifying the cause, strengthening the surrounding muscles, and guiding you through the best recovery plan tailored to your needs
Download Our Infographic On How To Identify Gluteal Tendinopathy

How Solent Specialist Physiotherapy Can Help Manage Gluteal Tendinopathy

 

At Solent Specialist Physiotherapy, we are experts in diagnosing and treating gluteal tendinopathy (also known as trochanteric bursitis, GTPS, or lateral hip pain). A strong diagnosis is essential to ensure the right treatment plan, as this condition can often be mistaken for other hip or lower back problems. 

Our approach is based on the latest evidence-based rehabilitation, focusing on reducing pain, improving strength, and restoring function. Your personalised treatment plan may include: 


1.Targeted strengthening exercises to improve gluteal muscle function and reduce strain on the tendons. Also exercises to improve core strength and general lower limb strength and stability.


2.Load management strategies- a crucial part of managing this painful condition is to identify how and when the tendon is being compressed. We will work with you to address this important step and help you return to daily activities and exercise safely. 


3.Hands-on treatment to ease discomfort and improve movement where appropriate. 


4.Guidance on lifestyle modifications to prevent aggravation and recurrence of symptoms. 

5.If further investigations such as MRI or ultrasound imaging are needed, we can arrange referrals to confirm the diagnosis.

6.If appropraite, we can administer injection therapy to help manage pain and support your rehabilitation. 

Our goal is to provide expert, tailored care so you can move comfortably and confidently again and get back to doing the things you love. 

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Support options for gluteal tendinopathy

At Solent Specialist Physiotherapy, we believe that face-to-face assessment and treatment offer the best foundation for managing gluteal tendinopathy, particularly when symptoms are persistent or complex. Being able to assess movement, loading patterns and tissue response in person allows care to be truly tailored to what your hip needs.

At the same time, we understand that attending appointments isn’t always possible, and that some people are already clear about their diagnosis or ready to work through a structured rehabilitation programme at home. In these situations, our carefully designed programme can offer helpful, guided support.

Is this programme right for you?

This programme may be a good fit if:

  • You’ve been told you have gluteal tendinopathy or outer hip pain related to the gluteal tendons

  • Your symptoms feel fairly steady rather than rapidly worsening

  • You’re comfortable following a progressive exercise programme at your own pace

  • You’d like clear guidance and reassurance as you work through recovery

  • Getting to regular face-to-face appointments isn’t practical for you right now

When it’s better to start with specialist assessment

We’d usually recommend an individual assessment if:

  • You’re unsure about your diagnosis

  • Your pain is severe, changing, or affecting sleep significantly

  • Symptoms haven’t responded to previous treatment

  • You feel anxious about managing things on your own

  • You’d value hands-on assessment and personalised guidance

A supportive option, alongside specialist care

Our video-led gluteal tendinopathy programme, developed by Victoria Smith, a specialist hip physiotherapist with over 26 years’ experience, is designed to support recovery where appropriate, using evidence-based exercise, education and practical advice.

The programme isn’t intended to replace specialist assessment. If symptoms aren’t improving, or if you’re unsure which option feels right, we’re always happy to help guide you.

View the gluteal tendinopathy programme →