Gluteus Medius Tendinopathy
Understanding Gluteus Medius Tendinopathy
Gluteus Medius Tendinopathy is a painful condition affecting the outer part of the hip that can limit your ability to stand, walk, climb stairs, or run comfortably. It often develops gradually through overuse or repetitive stress on the tendon, though it can also result from a sudden injury or tear. The gluteus medius muscle plays a crucial role in stabilising the pelvis during movement.
When its tendon becomes irritated or weakened, everyday activities can become
increasingly painful.
Causes
- Weak or inactive gluteal muscles
- Excessive or repetitive load on the tendon
- Lack of adequate rest or recovery
- Changes in movement mechanics due to other injuries
- Poor nutrition or general health
Symptoms
- Pain along the outer edge or slightly behind the hip
- Pain when bearing weight on the affected side
- Discomfort when climbing stairs or slopes
- Radiating pain down the outer thigh or leg
Diagnosis
Diagnosis begins with a comprehensive assessment of your medical history, symptoms, and movement patterns. Imaging such as X-ray or MRI may be used to confirm the diagnosis or
rule out other causes of hip pain.
Treatment
- Targeted strengthening and stability exercises
- Manual therapy and soft tissue massage
- Load management and activity modification
- Trigger point release or dry needling
- Strapping, taping, or orthotics for added support
- Education on posture, movement, and recovery techniques
Specialist & Regenerative Medicine Options
- Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy — Ultrasound-guided PRP injection into the gluteus medius tendon delivers a concentrated source of growth factors that may support collagen production and tissue repair.
- High-Volume Injection (HVI) — A large-volume saline-based injection used to address scar tissue around the tendon and support normal tissue movement, sometimes combined with PRP.
- Prolotherapy — Targeted injections to the tendon attachment points to support the tendon-bone interface and manage chronic pain.
- Corticosteroid Injections — Used conservatively to manage acute pain flares where inflammation is preventing participation in rehabilitation.
- Peptide Therapy — Certain prescribed peptides may support tissue repair and recovery processes as part of a broader management plan for tendon conditions. Individual clinical assessment and a valid prescription are required.
- Stem Cell Therapy — In presentations with significant tendon degeneration, stem cell injections may be considered as part of an individualised treatment plan.
Our sports and exercise physicians at Prestidge work alongside your treating clinician to
determine which option best suits your condition, goals, and stage of injury. Image-guided
procedures are performed with precision and care. Visit prestidge.com.au to learn more about
our full range of specialist services.
Important: All specialist consultations, prescription treatments, and injectable procedures are subject to individual clinical assessment by a registered medical practitioner. Suitability, potential benefits, and risks will be discussed during your consultation. No treatment outcomes are guaranteed. Prescription medicines — including testosterone and peptide therapies — are only available following appropriate medical review and a valid prescription in accordance with TGA and AHPRA requirements.
Prevention Tips
- Regular strength and resistance training
- Proper warm-up and cool-down routines
- Gradual progression of new activities
- Balanced nutrition and hydration
- Prioritising recovery and sleep