Shockwave Therapy for Gluteal Tendinopathy: Effective Treatment for Lateral Hip Pain

Gluteal tendinopathy is one of the most common causes of persistent lateral hip pain, particularly in adults aged 40–70. It often causes pain when walking, climbing stairs, standing on one leg, or lying on the affected side. If symptoms persist despite rest or physiotherapy, shockwave therapy (ESWT) may be an effective, non-invasive treatment option.

What Is Gluteal Tendinopathy?

Gluteal tendinopathy occurs when the gluteus medius or gluteus minimus tendons become overloaded or degenerated where they attach to the greater trochanter of the hip. It is often misdiagnosed as bursitis, but research now shows tendon pathology is the primary source of pain.

Common symptoms include:

• Pain on the outside of the hip

• Pain when lying on the affected side

• Discomfort with walking, running, or climbing stairs

• Pain with prolonged standing or sitting

How Shockwave Therapy Helps Gluteal Tendinopathy

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) uses acoustic sound waves delivered to the affected tendon to stimulate healing and reduce pain.

Shockwave therapy works by:

• Stimulating tendon regeneration and collagen production

• Improving local blood flow to promote tissue repair

• Reducing pain sensitivity by modulating nerve signalling

• Breaking the chronic pain cycle seen in long-standing tendinopathy

ESWT is particularly effective for chronic gluteal tendinopathy that has not improved with exercise therapy alone.

Evidence Supporting Shockwave Therapy for Gluteal Tendinopathy

Shockwave therapy is well supported by clinical research for lateral hip pain:

• A 2011 randomized controlled trial published in The American Journal of Sports Medicine found that ESWT produced significantly better pain and functional outcomes than corticosteroid injections at both 4 and 12 months for gluteal tendinopathy.

• A 2018 systematic review in Sports Medicine concluded that ESWT is an effective treatment for lower-limb tendinopathies, including gluteal tendinopathy, especially in chronic cases.

• Research published in BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine supports ESWT as a safe and effective option when combined with appropriate load management and exercise rehabilitation.

These studies suggest that shockwave therapy provides long-term improvement, unlike injections which may offer only short-term relief.

What to Expect During Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy sessions are quick and simple:

1. The hip is assessed and the tender tendon area identified

2. A gel is applied to improve energy transmission

3. A handheld device delivers focused shockwaves to the tendon

4. Each session lasts 5–10 minutes

Most patients require 3–5 sessions, spaced 1–2 weeks apart. Mild discomfort during treatment is common, and temporary soreness or redness may occur afterward.

Who Is Shockwave Therapy Suitable For?

Shockwave therapy is ideal for patients who:

• Have chronic lateral hip pain

• Have not improved with rest or physiotherapy alone

• Want to avoid injections or surgery

• Experience pain affecting sleep, walking, or daily activities

It is not recommended for:

• Pregnancy

• Blood clotting disorders

• Tumors or infections near the treatment area

Combining Shockwave Therapy with Physiotherapy

For best outcomes, shockwave therapy should be combined with:

• Targeted gluteal strengthening exercises

• Load management and activity modification

• Education on posture and movement patterns

This combination addresses both pain relief and long-term tendon health, reducing recurrence.

Shockwave Therapy for Gluteal Tendinopathy in Auckland

At Care Rehab Physio, we offer evidence-based shockwave therapy for gluteal tendinopathy and lateral hip pain. Our treatment plans are personalised to help reduce pain, restore function, and get you back to comfortable movement.