Focused Shockwave Therapy for Gluteal Tendinopathy

Gluteal tendinopathy is the most common cause of persistent lateral hip pain and involves degeneration or partial tearing of the gluteus medius and/or gluteus minimus tendons at their attachment on the greater trochanter. Often described as the “rotator cuff tear of the hip,” this condition most commonly affects adults between ages 50–70 and occurs more frequently in women.

Current research shows that most lateral hip pain is tendon-related rather than isolated bursitis. True primary bursitis is uncommon, and when bursal irritation is present, it is typically secondary to underlying gluteal tendon dysfunction. The primary mechanical driver is excessive compressive and tensile loading at the tendon insertion, particularly affecting the deeper anterior fibers.

Because gluteal tendinopathy is a degenerative tendon disorder rather than an inflammatory condition, treatment focuses on restoring tendon load capacity and improving hip biomechanics. Focused Shockwave Therapy is a non-invasive treatment that may be incorporated into conservative management when progressive loading exercises alone do not fully resolve symptoms.