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Gluteal Tendinopathy Physiotherapy in Calgary
Reduce outer hip pain, restore strength, and move with confidence.
At Avenue Physio in downtown Calgary, we provide one on one, evidence based physiotherapy for gluteal tendinopathy, a common cause of pain on the outside of the hip.
If pain on the side of your hip is making it uncomfortable to walk, sleep on your side, or climb stairs, we help identify what is contributing to your symptoms and guide you through a structured rehabilitation plan.
Most people improve significantly with progressive strengthening and careful load management.
What Is Gluteal Tendinopathy
Gluteal tendinopathy refers to irritation of the tendons that attach the gluteal muscles to the outside of the hip.
These tendons help stabilize the pelvis during walking and support the hip when standing on one leg.
When the load placed on these tendons exceeds what they are prepared to tolerate, they can become sensitive and painful.
This condition is sometimes referred to as greater trochanteric pain syndrome.
Pain is often influenced by tendon load, compression around the hip, and muscle strength rather than structural damage.
Common Symptoms Of Gluteal Tendinopathy
People with gluteal tendinopathy often notice:
- Pain on the outside of the hip
- Pain when lying on the affected side
- Discomfort with walking longer distances
- Pain with climbing stairs or hills
- Tenderness when pressing the side of the hip
- Pain when standing on one leg
Symptoms often fluctuate depending on activity levels and how the hip is loaded.
Why Gluteal Tendons Become Painful
The gluteal tendons experience load during everyday activities such as walking, standing, and climbing stairs.
Symptoms often develop when the forces placed on the tendon exceed what it can tolerate.
Compression of the tendon against the hip bone can also increase irritation.
Certain positions increase compressive load around the hip, including:
- Standing with the hip dropped to one side
- Crossing the legs
- Sitting with knees together for long periods
- Sleeping directly on the painful side
Improving muscle strength and modifying these positions often helps reduce irritation.
Important Facts About Hip Pain
- The hip is a strong and stable joint designed to tolerate significant load.
- Imaging findings such as tendon changes, labral tears, or arthritis are common, even in people without pain. Scan results alone do not determine how your hip will feel or function.
- Hip pain is often related to load sensitivity in muscles and tendons rather than structural damage.
- Graduated strengthening and movement are safe and beneficial for tendon health. Appropriate loading helps the tendon adapt and become more resilient.
- Avoiding movement completely can reduce strength and increase sensitivity over time.
Positions That Can Irritate Gluteal Tendons
Certain positions place higher compressive forces on the outside of the hip.
Reducing these positions during early rehabilitation can help symptoms settle.
Examples include:
- Crossing the legs while sitting
- Standing with most weight on one hip
- Sleeping directly on the painful side without support
- Sitting with the knees tightly together
Small adjustments, such as using a pillow between the knees or keeping the hips level while standing, can reduce compression and irritation.
How Physiotherapy Helps Gluteal Tendinopathy
Physiotherapy focuses on restoring the ability of the tendon and surrounding muscles to tolerate load.
At Avenue Physio, every appointment is one-on-one and focused entirely on you.
Your treatment plan may include:
- A detailed assessment of the hip, pelvis, and lower back
- Progressive strengthening of the gluteal muscles
- Exercises to improve pelvic stability during walking
- Strategies to reduce excessive tendon compression
- Gradual return to walking, hills, and exercise
- Education to help you understand tendon pain and recovery
Learn more about specific hip conditions
Related areas:
How Long Does Recovery Take
Tendons adapt gradually. Many people notice meaningful improvement within six to twelve weeks with consistent strengthening.
Recovery time varies depending on symptom duration, activity levels, and overall health.
A structured rehabilitation plan helps guide safe progression and prevent recurring flare ups.
When Should You See A Physiotherapist
You should consider an assessment if:
- Pain on the outside of the hip is limiting walking or exercise
- You cannot comfortably lie on one side
- Symptoms have persisted for several weeks
- Pain is interfering with sleep or daily activities
Early guidance can help prevent symptoms from becoming persistent.
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