What to Expect from Physiotherapy for Gluteal Tendinopathy

The physiotherapist may ask where you feel pain, whether lying on that side or climbing stairs aggravates it, and how symptoms affect walking, work or sport. They can observe your hip, pelvis and leg movement, then check strength and tolerance of selected positions. Gluteal tendinopathy involves irritation or reduced load tolerance in tendons around the outer hip; the programme is adjusted to your symptoms rather than based on a fixed routine.

Early sessions often focus on comfortable loading, such as controlled hip exercises and positions that avoid prolonged compression at the outer hip. You may receive a home plan involving isometric or slow strengthening, followed by more demanding standing, stair, balance or sport-related tasks as control improves. Space between exercises, sleep position, sitting posture and changes in running or walking volume may also be discussed. Progress is judged by daily function and symptom response, so tell the therapist if an exercise causes a lasting flare.

Arrange medical review if pain follows a significant fall, you cannot bear weight, the hip becomes hot or swollen, or you develop fever. Seek urgent help for new leg weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, or numbness around the groin. If symptoms are not improving as the plan is adjusted, contact the treating clinician so other causes can be considered.

Ask which activities are safe now, how to modify side-lying and stairs, and what change in symptoms should prompt a pause. You can also ask how progress will be measured and when strengthening can return to your usual work or sport.