Gluteal Tendinopathy Treatment Using LLLT/PBMT

What Is Gluteal Tendinopathy?

Gluteal tendinopathy, also referred to as hip tendonitis, is a common cause of lateral hip pain or pain in the muscles and tendons of the buttock. It involves degeneration and inflammation of the gluteal tendons, most commonly the gluteus medius and minimus tendons, which attach the gluteal muscles to the outside of the hip at the greater trochanter. This condition may also coexist with inflammation of the nearby bursae, termed hip bursitis or trochanteric bursitis.

Gluteal tendinopathy is typically an overuse injury in which the gluteal tendons degenerate or sustain damage and become irritated. It results from repeated loading or strain on the tendons, leading to micro-tears, pain and impaired function over time.

It can involve one or more of the gluteal tendons, including the gluteus maximus, medius and minimus, and may coexist with irritation of deeper muscles including the piriformis, obturator, gemellus and quadratus femoris. The piriformis muscle can also become strained. Read more on our dedicated Piriformis Syndrome page.

Causes of Gluteal Tendinopathy

Several factors may contribute to the development of gluteal tendinopathy:

• Overtraining or a sudden increase in activity levels, often described as “too much, too soon”
• Jogging and jumping
• Prolonged walking or standing, especially on hard surfaces
• Transitioning to uneven or harder surfaces, such as moving from grass to pavement
• Wearing unsupportive shoes or high heels for long periods
• Repetitive movements such as hill walking or running
• Underlying biomechanical issues or altered gait due to other conditions

Although athletes are commonly affected, the condition can affect anyone whose daily activities place stress on the hip region. Most tendon injuries result from gradual wear and tear associated with overuse or ageing, although a gluteal tendon injury can also occur suddenly.