Manage Gluteal Tendinopathy (GTPS) at home
Have you heard of anyone undergoing surgery unnecessarily? It happens more than you would believe.
Gluteal tendinopathy (greater trochanteric pain syndrome or GTPS) is a debilitating condition that affects 1 in 4 women over the age of 50. This is a condition that is comparable to the pain and symptoms of severe osteoarthritis.
Unfortunately, GTPS is a condition that can present similarly to other hip conditions and can be misdiagnosed. A misdiagnosis is likely to lead to incorrect management, aggravated symptoms and in worse cases, even result in unnecessary, useless surgery. Correct diagnosis is crucial to ensure your condition is managed properly. An early diagnosis is best, and gives you the greatest chance of recovery. At Concentric Rehab, our physiotherapists are qualified to assess, diagnose, and help you manage gluteal tendinopathy. (or any hip condition)
What should I do if I have symptoms?
If you have hip pain symptoms, the first thing you need to do is obtain a diagnosis. Your physiotherapist can do this simply and quickly. Standard treatment options for GTPS are few, but varied:
- Steroid injections are commonly used to treat tendinopathies. These injections have proven to provide effective belief that lasts for an average of 8 weeks.
- Exercise together with education has been clinically trialled and and shown to be an effective management approach to gluteal tendinopathy. (without side effects)
- Surgery should be a last resort. A study published in January 2018 recorded “poor outcomes, significant complications and concerning reoperation rates” for surgery of GTPS.
How can I manage it at home?
After you’ve had your diagnosis and have chosen your approach to treatment, there are some simple things you can do to minimise your symptoms and recover more quickly:
- Avoid activity that aggravates your pain.
- Apply ice to the painful area for 20 minutes at a time, twice an hour, for the 3 days. Keep using ice as long as it helps.
- Partake in prescribed, gentle range-of-motion exercises and stretching. (This will help prevent stiffness.)
- Undertake a strengthening program prepared for you by your physio.
If you want to manage your hip condition at home and avoid surgery and its complications, contact Concentric Rehab.