Gluteal Tendinopathy: Causes, Symptoms, and Osteopathic Treatment
What is Gluteal Tendinopathy?
Gluteal Tendinopathy, also known as hip tendonitis, is a moderate to sever condition characterised by pain over the greater trochanter - the lateral hip. It is the most common type of tendinopathy that affects the lower limb and can affect 1 in 4 women over the age of 50. This common issue can cause discomfort and limit mobility, it can commonly affect sleep and significantly impact on daily life.
Causes of Gluteal Tendinopathy:
Understanding the factors that contribute to gluteal tendinopathy is crucial for effective treatment. Common causes include:
Overuse or Repetitive Movements: Activities such as running, cycling, or climbing stairs can strain the tendons in the hip area over time.
Hip Muscle Weakness: Weakness in the gluteal muscles or imbalances in muscle strength can lead to increased stress on the tendons.
Poor Biomechanics: Incorrect posture or improper technique during physical activities can contribute to tendon irritation. Genetic factors influencing hip and pelvic angles can also predispose to developing gluteal tendinopathy.
Age-related Changes: Degenerative changes of the tendons can increase the risk of tendinitis and tendiniopathy.
Symptoms of Gluteal Tendinitis
Identifying the symptoms of gluteal tendinitis can help in early diagnosis and treatment. Common signs include:
Pain: Typically felt on the outside of the hip and may radiate down the thigh. Pain with lying on the side, especially at night. Pain with sitting for long periods or crossing the legs.
Tenderness: The affected area may be sensitive to touch or pressure.
Stiffness: Difficulty with weight bearing activities such as walking, climbing stairs, standing, running, or getting up from a seated position.
Osteopathic Approach to Treating Gluteal Tendinopathy
At Tugun Osteopathy, our osteopathic treatments are tailored to address the root causes of gluteal tendinopathy and provide lasting relief:
Comprehensive Assessment: Through a detailed case history evaluation and physical assessment, our Osteopaths can identify the underlying factors contributing to your tendiniopathy.
Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques such as gentle manipulation, myofascial release, and stretching help reduce inflammation and restore mobility to the affected tendons. Hands on treatment can help to improve the biomechanics of your pelvis and lower limb reducing the load on your tendons.
Exercise Prescription: Customised exercises are often given to appropriately load and strengthen the gluteal muscles, improve tissue recovery.
Postural Education: Guidance on proper posture and ergonomic practices helps prevent future flare-ups of gluteal tendinitis.
Why Choose Osteopathy for Gluteal Tendinopathy?
Osteopathic care offers a wholistic approach to managing gluteal tendinitis, focusing on natural, non-invasive techniques that promote healing and prevent recurrence. Unlike some medications or invasive procedures, osteopathy addresses the root cause of the problem, providing long-term relief and improving overall musculoskeletal health.
If you're experiencing hip pain or discomfort that could be related to gluteal tendinopathy, contact us on 0405 640 786.