Gluteal Tendinopathy and Trochanteric Bursitis
Gluteal tendinopathy is more commonly called trochanteric pain syndrome. It occurs due to degeneration of the tendons of gluteus medius, a deep muscle of the hip, present on the lateral side of the hip. These muscles are important in stabilizing the hip joint and help in bearing weight. Gluteal tendinopathy is more common in middle aged women.
Patients who had gluteal tendinopathy experience the symptoms such as:
- Pain on the outer side of the hip
- Pain increases on climbing stairs or walking on an inclined surface
- Difficulty sleeping on the affected side
Diagnosis does not require any tests. MRI, X-ray or ultrasound may be asked to rule out other cause of hip pain such as osteoarthritis, avascular necrosis and others.
Treatment involves:
- Relative rest and allowing pain to settle by avoiding climbing stairs or long walks
- Applying ice pack/ heat packs for pain reduction
- Pain medications and anti-inflammatory medicines
- Physical strengthening exercises for the affected muscle in presence of a trained physiotherapist
- Steroid injection in the affected area guided by ultrasound for acute symptoms
- Surgery is rarely required and is done only in case of severe tear of the gluteus medius where conservative measures have failed.