Gluteal Tendinopathy/Hip Buristis
What is it?
Gluteal tendinopathy is the most common cause of lateral hip pain. It is defined as moderate to severe disabling pain over the Greater Trochanter (lateral hip pain) with marked palpation tenderness over the greater trochanter. The pain can at times prefer into the lateral thigh. It is often referred to as Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS) and was traditionally diagnosed as hip buristsis.
What is the cause?
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Putting too much force on your tendons during physical activities (overuse).
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Tendon compression due to a fall or another type of accident.
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Excess pressure on the tendons from weight gain or obesity.
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Inactivity or a sedentary lifestyle (underuse). This condition generally affects inactive people but can also be a problem in athletes, especially runners.
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Wide pelvis or hip instability.
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It is the most common tendinopathy in the lower limb with one in four females over 50 years likely to be affected.
Signs & Symptoms
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Gradual worsening pain over the hip bone and surrounding area
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Pain on sleeping/lying on affected side
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Pain on walking
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Pain on walking up/down stairs or hills
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Crossing of legs
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Weight shifting onto affected leg in static standing
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Discomfort getting up/down from chair or getting in/out of car
What can we do about it?
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Specific loading exercises prescribed by your Physiotherapist – research has shown that loading the muscles/tendons at the correct dosage results in better and faster outcomes.
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Education/Advice – specific solutions to avoid aggravating movements.
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Taping Techniques – to offload tendon/muscles
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Massage – reduce tension and spasm in associated muscles to promote better movement.
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Dry Needling/Acupuncture – is a safe way to release tight muscles and decrease pain levels.
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Heat/Ice – can be an effective treatment modality that can be used to ease discomfort at home or at work.
What about corisone injections?
Research has found that cortisone injections into the tendon can be effective for short term pain relief, however it has shown no benefit long term. Cortisone injections affect individuals in different ways, some get no relief while others see the benefit. Usually individuals will present back with the pain weeks or months down the track.