Gluteal Tendinopathy (Lateral Hip Pain): Physiotherapy Assessment & Rehabilitation
Outer hip pain, often called gluteal tendinopathy, is a common cause of lateral hip discomfort, especially in women over 35. At Fit 2 Function Allied Health, we provide evidence-based assessment and rehabilitation to reduce pain, restore strength, and return you to normal activity.
This page explains what gluteal tendinopathy is, how it is diagnosed, and how physiotherapy can guide recovery.
What is gluteal tendinopathy?
Gluteal tendinopathy involves overuse or degeneration of the tendons that attach the gluteus medius and minimus muscles to the hip. Key features include:
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Pain on the outside of the hip, often when lying on the affected side
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Discomfort during walking, running, or stairs
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Possible stiffness after periods of rest or prolonged sitting
It is often mistaken for hip osteoarthritis or lower back pain, making accurate assessment important.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis is primarily clinical:
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History of lateral hip pain and aggravating activities
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Physical examination: tenderness, strength testing, functional movement assessment
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Imaging if symptoms persist:
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Ultrasound to confirm tendon changes
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MRI in select cases to rule out alternative pathology
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Early physiotherapy can reduce the need for imaging and speed recovery.
Physiotherapy management of gluteal tendinopathy
The focus is on active rehabilitation rather than passive treatments alone. Key strategies include:
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Load management: balancing rest with gradual tendon loading
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Strengthening: gluteus medius, minimus, hip stabilisers, core
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Movement retraining: improving gait, running, or sport-specific mechanics
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Education: posture, activity modification, and strategies to reduce flare-ups
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Progressive loading: from isometrics to functional exercises, tailored to pain response
Treatment is typically structured, progressive, and adapted to your goals and lifestyle.
Return to activity and sport
Return is guided by objective criteria:
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Pain-free functional tasks
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Hip and lower limb strength symmetry
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Quality of movement during daily and sport activities
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Gradual load increase to tolerance
Most people can return to normal walking, running, and recreational sports with structured rehab.
Book a lateral hip assessment
If you have outer hip pain or suspect gluteal tendinopathy, our physiotherapists can assess your hip, identify contributing factors, and design a personalised rehabilitation plan.
Learn more about hip & groin injuries & physiotherapy
Explore our other shoulder condition pages to understand evidence-based assessment, rehabilitation, and return-to-activity strategies:
Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI) & Hip-Related Groin Pain | Gluteal Tendinopathy (Lateral Hip Pain) | Adductor-Related Groin Pain | Hip Osteoarthritis | Hip Labral Tears
Our physiotherapists provide individualised programs focused on restoring movement, strength, and long-term hip and groin health.
