How effective is physiotherapy for gluteal tendinopathy?

Gluteal tendinopathy affects the tendons that help stabilise the outer hip. A physiotherapist can check hip strength, walking and stair mechanics, single-leg control and activities that compress or load the tendon. Treatment commonly combines education about load, gradual strengthening of the hip muscles, and adjustments to sitting, sleeping, running or side-lying positions.

The purpose is to build the tendon’s tolerance rather than avoid movement indefinitely. Progress may show as less pain when climbing stairs, standing from a chair, walking uphill or lying on the affected side. Symptoms can fluctuate if activity increases faster than the tendon can adapt, so the plan is usually adjusted in response to the next day’s symptoms.

Use the home programme as prescribed and increase repetitions, resistance or activity only when advised. Avoid sudden jumps in hills, running distance or lateral exercise. Try not to sit with the knees tightly crossed or lie directly on the painful side if those positions worsen symptoms. Keep a simple record of walking tolerance and flare-ups to discuss at review. Read more about [Gluteal Tendinopathy](/conditions/gluteal-tendinopathy/) and [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/).

Seek prompt assessment after a fall if you cannot bear weight, or if the hip looks abnormal, becomes markedly swollen or the pain is severe and sudden. Urgent care is needed for fever with a hot joint, new loss of bladder or bowel control, or significant weakness or numbness in the leg. Tell your clinician if pain keeps worsening despite reduced load or if the diagnosis is uncertain.

Which activities are currently overloading my hip? How should I judge an acceptable exercise response? When can I return to hills, running or side-lying? What other causes of outer-hip pain should be considered if progress is limited?