Lateral hip pain can make everyday activities such as walking, climbing stairs, getting out of a chair, or sleeping on your side surprisingly uncomfortable. One common cause is gluteal tendinopathy, a condition involving irritation and reduced capacity of the gluteal tendons around the outside of the hip. It is sometimes confused with hip bursitis, but the underlying problem can be different. Seeing a physio in Newton can help identify the source of your pain and develop a targeted rehabilitation program rather than relying on rest alone.
What Is Gluteal Tendinopathy?
Gluteal tendinopathy affects the tendons of the gluteus medius and gluteus minimus muscles. These muscles help stabilise the pelvis and control hip movement during activities such as walking, running, and standing on one leg.
Pain is commonly felt over the outside of the hip and may become worse when:
● Walking uphill or climbing stairs
● Standing on one leg
● Running or increasing exercise suddenly
● Getting in and out of a car
● Lying on the affected side
● Sitting with the legs crossed
The condition can develop gradually through repeated loading, although a sudden increase in physical activity may also contribute.
Gluteal Tendinopathy vs Hip Bursitis
Lateral hip pain has historically been labelled as trochanteric bursitis, but not every case is primarily caused by bursa inflammation. The gluteal tendons and surrounding tissues may also contribute significantly to symptoms.
A hip bursitis physio assessment can help determine whether the presentation is more consistent with tendon-related pain, bursal irritation, or another musculoskeletal issue. A thorough assessment may include movement testing, strength assessment, functional tasks, and discussion of activities that aggravate symptoms.
This distinction matters because treatment should address the specific factors contributing to your pain, not apply the same approach to every patient.
How Physiotherapy Can Help
A physio in Newton can create a progressive treatment plan designed around your symptoms, activity levels, and functional goals. Treatment often focuses on improving the hip’s ability to tolerate load over time.
Progressive Exercise
Exercise is an important part of gluteal tendinitis rehab. Depending on your presentation, your physiotherapist may introduce exercises that progressively strengthen the hip abductors and surrounding muscles.
The program may begin with manageable isometric or controlled strengthening exercises before progressing towards more demanding movements. The aim is to improve strength and load tolerance without repeatedly aggravating the tendon.
Managing Daily Loads
Physiotherapy also involves identifying movements or habits that may unnecessarily compress or overload the painful area. Your therapist may recommend temporary modifications to exercise, sleeping positions, walking routines, or other activities while capacity improves.
Importantly, this does not necessarily mean complete rest. Appropriate movement and gradual loading can be important parts of recovery.
When Should You See a Physiotherapist?
Persistent lateral hip pain should not simply be ignored, particularly if it interferes with sleep, exercise, work, or normal daily activities. A physio in Newton can assess your symptoms and determine whether physiotherapy is appropriate or whether further medical investigation is warranted.
Early assessment can also help you understand which activities are safe and how to progress your rehabilitation without repeatedly exceeding your current capacity.
Get Support for Lateral Hip Pain in Newton
Gluteal tendinopathy can be frustrating, but a structured rehabilitation approach can help restore strength, confidence, and tolerance to everyday movement. If persistent lateral hip pain is affecting your routine, speak with a qualified physio in Newton for an individual assessment and evidence-informed treatment plan.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What causes gluteal tendinopathy?
It can develop when the gluteal tendons are exposed to more load than they can currently tolerate. Changes in activity, repetitive loading, and reduced hip strength may contribute.
2. Is gluteal tendinopathy the same as hip bursitis?
No. They can produce similar lateral hip symptoms, but gluteal tendinopathy involves the gluteal tendons, while bursitis involves irritation of a bursa.
3. How long does gluteal tendinopathy rehab take?
Recovery varies between individuals. Progress depends on symptom severity, tendon capacity, activity demands, and consistency with an appropriate rehabilitation program.
4. Can I exercise with lateral hip pain?
Often, yes, but you may need to modify exercises. A physiotherapist can help identify suitable movements and establish an appropriate progression.
5. When should I see a physio?
Consider an assessment if hip pain persists, worsens, affects sleep or daily activities, or prevents you from participating in normal exercise.