How long does shockwave therapy take to work for gluteal tendinopathy?

Gluteal tendinopathy affects tendons that help stabilise the hip. Shockwave treatment can leave the outer hip tender for a short time, and pain may fluctuate while the tendon adapts. Early progress may mean tolerating a longer walk, lying on the affected side for more of the night, or climbing stairs with less discomfort. A full return to running, side-stepping, or prolonged standing can take longer. The starting irritability of the tendon, sleep pressure, hip strength, and daily loading all influence the timeline.

Use the plan given by your physiotherapist rather than testing the hip repeatedly. Reduce activities that compress or overload the tendon, such as lying directly on the painful side, crossing the legs for long periods, or sudden increases in hills and stairs. Keep prescribed strengthening consistent, with load increased in small stages as symptoms allow. A pillow between the knees may reduce night pressure. Record walking tolerance and next-day soreness so the programme can be adjusted sensibly.

Report worsening night pain, new numbness, increasing weakness, or pain that remains substantially higher between sessions. Seek urgent assessment after a fall with inability to bear weight, a hot swollen hip, fever, or sudden severe pain.

Ask which activities are currently compressing the tendon, how strengthening should progress, when side-lying or running can resume, and how treatment response will be reviewed.