Gluteal tendinopathy is a leading cause of lateral hip pain, particularly in women during and after menopause. This condition involves degeneration or damage to the gluteal tendons, most commonly the gluteus medius and gluteus minimus. These muscles are critical for hip stability and movement. Menopause can increase the likelihood of developing gluteal tendinopathy due to hormonal changes that weaken tendon structure.
This page explains how menopause contributes to this condition, the symptoms to watch for, how it is diagnosed, and the treatment options available. We will also explore how hormone replacement therapy (HRT) plays an important role in recovery and long-term tendon health.
What Is Gluteal Tendinopathy?
Gluteal tendinopathy refers to a non-inflammatory degeneration of the gluteal tendons that attach to the greater trochanter of the femur. Unlike acute injuries, this condition develops over time due to repetitive loading, mechanical stress, or tissue aging. It is a common condition among women over the age of 45 and has a strong link to menopause.
How Menopause Increases Risk
Hormonal Impact on Tendons
Estrogen influences the health and maintenance of collagen-based tissues such as tendons. When estrogen levels fall during menopause, tendon elasticity and strength decline. This makes the tendons more prone to microtears, slow healing, and degeneration. Key effects of estrogen loss on tendons include:
- Decreased collagen synthesis
- Reduced hydration in connective tissues
- Impaired tendon repair mechanisms
Biomechanical and Musculoskeletal Changes
Beyond hormone levels, menopause is associated with:
- Increased fat mass and reduced lean muscle
- Decreased bone mineral density
- Altered gait and pelvic stability
- Higher mechanical stress on the hip tendons
When these changes are combined, they increase the chances of tendinopathy developing in the gluteal region.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Symptoms of gluteal tendinopathy often develop gradually. Key signs include:
- Pain on the outside of the hip
- Pain that worsens when lying on the affected side
- Discomfort during walking, especially uphill or on uneven surfaces
- Tenderness over the bony prominence of the hip (greater trochanter)
- Weakness or instability when standing on one leg
These symptoms can range from mild discomfort to chronic pain that limits activity and sleep.
How It’s Diagnosed
Diagnosis relies on a combination of clinical history, physical exam, and imaging tests. Healthcare providers may:
- Examine range of motion and perform specific resistance tests
- Palpate the hip area to identify tenderness over the greater trochanter
- Order imaging such as MRI or ultrasound to confirm tendon thickening, tears, or inflammation
Ruling out related conditions like bursitis, osteoarthritis, or lumbar spine issues is also part of a thorough evaluation.
Effective Treatment Options
Physical Therapy
Rehabilitation through physical therapy is the first-line treatment. It focuses on:
- Progressive strengthening of the gluteus medius and minimus
- Improving pelvic and core stability
- Eccentric loading exercises to encourage tendon remodeling
- Correcting gait abnormalities and hip biomechanics
A physical therapist may also use techniques such as soft tissue mobilization, dry needling, or shockwave therapy depending on severity.
Activity Modification
Certain daily habits can make symptoms worse. Making adjustments can significantly reduce pain and improve function:
- Avoid sitting with legs crossed
- Sleep with a pillow between the knees to reduce tendon compression
- Use cushioned footwear to reduce impact forces during walking
- Limit uphill walking or stair climbing during acute flare-ups
Medication and Injections
Pain relief may be necessary for acute management. Options include:
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Topical anti-inflammatory creams
- Corticosteroid injections (reserved for short-term relief in moderate to severe cases)
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections to promote tendon healing
Supportive Equipment
Assistive tools such as:
- Hip braces or compression garments
- Orthotic inserts to correct leg length discrepancies
- Cushions for sitting support
These tools may be recommended to offload stress on the affected area.
The Role of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
HRT and Tendon Health
Hormone replacement therapy can improve tendon structure and function in postmenopausal women. By replenishing estrogen, HRT may:
- Enhance collagen production in connective tissues
- Improve tendon hydration and elasticity
- Support recovery from tendinopathy and other musculoskeletal conditions
HRT does not replace the need for exercise or therapy, but it supports the biological foundation needed for recovery.
Personalized Care with Amazing Meds
At Amazing Meds, we understand that tendon pain during menopause is not just about mechanics, but also biology. Our personalized HRT programs are developed to:
- Restore hormonal balance
- Improve musculoskeletal health
- Support tissue repair and reduce pain
We take a comprehensive approach that includes evaluating your symptoms, hormone levels, and treatment goals. Our therapy plans are based on medical evidence and adjusted over time to ensure effectiveness and safety.
Amazing Meds also provides access to adjunct services like peptide therapy and HGH therapy that may aid in tissue regeneration and long-term wellness. We aim to help you return to a more active, pain-free lifestyle with greater confidence and support.
To learn more about our treatment options, visit: https://amazing-meds.com/
Nutrition, Lifestyle, and Prevention
Supportive lifestyle habits can reduce symptoms and prevent future tendon problems:
- Nutrition: Eat a diet rich in protein, vitamin C, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids
- Exercise: Engage in regular strength training and weight-bearing activities
- Weight Management: Maintain a healthy body weight to reduce hip load
- Hydration: Stay well-hydrated to support tissue flexibility
- Sleep and Recovery: Prioritize rest to allow healing and reduce stress
These habits not only improve tendon function but also promote better hormonal and metabolic health.
Staying Ahead of Hip Pain
Gluteal tendinopathy during menopause is common but manageable. With the right strategies, symptoms can improve and function can be restored. Early treatment and attention to hormonal health are critical for long-term outcomes.
If you are experiencing persistent lateral hip pain and are in the menopausal transition, it may be time to consider both orthopedic and hormonal evaluations. With guidance from specialists and support from trusted providers like Amazing Meds, you can take charge of your health and move forward without hip pain holding you back.