Gluteal Tendinopathy: Causes, Symptoms, and Management Options for Lateral Hip Pain.
When the gluteal tendons around the hip become inflamed, Hip Tendonitis or Gluteal Tendinopathy occurs. While the Gluteus Maximus, Medius, and Minimus can all be affected, the latter two are most commonly involved.
Women over 40 are more prone to this pathology, often related to decreased blood circulation. Cyclists and runners are also frequently affected due to repetitive movements. Another group at risk includes those who sit with crossed legs for long periods or on very rigid surfaces. Usually, this extra-articular pain coexists with other intra-articular hip conditions.
Other risk factors include:
- Obesity
- Fibromyalgia
- Hip Arthritis
- Knee Osteoarthritis (Gonarthrosis)
Symptoms:
People with Gluteal Tendinopathy feel pain in the lateral area of the hip, causing discomfort when sleeping on one's side or standing. The pain can interfere with daily functions, much like Osteoarthritis. Patients may also experience a clicking sensation, joint stiffness, and difficulty walking.
What should I do?
When consulting a specialist, they will likely request an MRI to identify the inflamed tendons and the exact location of the injury.
Management:
Initial management is usually conservative: rest, anti-inflammatories, analgesics, local heat/cold, and physical rehabilitation. In complex cases, corticosteroid injections may be used. For associated tears, arthroscopy is an effective surgical tool.
Patient education is vital to reduce tendon loading during certain postures and exercises, which has a positive effect on daily activities.
