Gluteal Tendinopathy (GTPS)
Physiotherapy & Shockwave Treatment for Outer Hip Pain in St Albans
Pain on the outside of the hip is one of the most common problems we see at Redrock Physio. It can feel sharp when walking, achy when lying on your side, or tight when getting up from sitting.
This pattern is known as Gluteal Tendinopathy — or GTPS — and although it’s frustrating, it responds extremely well to the right combination of hands-on care, strengthening and shockwave therapy.
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What Is GTPS?
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GTPS occurs when the gluteal tendons (mainly gluteus medius and minimus) become irritated where they attach to the outside of the hip. This area is sensitive to compression and overload — especially through:
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Sudden increases in walking or running
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Sitting with crossed legs
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Repeated side-lying sleeping
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Reduced glute strength
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Stiff hips or ribs
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Postpartum changes
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Tight ITB patterns
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Hypermobility
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It’s common in women aged 40–70, runners, postpartum mums and anyone whose hips are doing more work than they’re ready for.
How We Assess GTPS
Your assessment includes:
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Gluteal strength testing
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Functional hip control
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Tenderness over the greater trochanter
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ITB tension and hip mobility
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Checking rib and pelvic contribution
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Screening for sciatica or lumbar referral
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Walking / running analysis (if relevant)
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Postpartum considerations where appropriate
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This helps us identify the specific drivers behind your symptoms, not just the label.
The Redrock Approach
GTPS responds best to a calm, structured plan that reduces tendon irritation and builds strong, confident hip movement. Our approach blends:
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Hands-on treatment to settle protective muscle tension
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Shockwave therapy to stimulate tendon healing and reduce pain
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Progressive glute strengthening (the core of GTPS rehab)
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Pelvis and rib mobility work to improve load-sharing
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Reformer Pilates for controlled, supported strengthening
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Running or walking technique adjustments when relevant
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Clear pacing strategies to avoid flare-ups
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Personalised video exercise plans filmed just for you
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Our goal is simple: help you walk, climb stairs and sleep comfortably on your side again.
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Common Symptoms
People with GTPS often notice:
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Pain on the outside of the hip
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Tenderness when pressing the bony point
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Pain lying on the affected side
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Sharp pain climbing stairs or walking uphill
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Aching after long walks
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Pulling sensation into the outer thigh
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Pain when standing on one leg
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Discomfort when sitting with legs crossed
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GTPS is often mistaken for sciatica — but it usually stays around the outer hip and thigh, rather than travelling below the knee.
Common GTPS Patterns
These patterns help explain why GTPS develops and why the outer hip becomes sensitive or overloaded.
Why Shockwave Therapy Helps GTPS
Shockwave is one of the most effective treatments for gluteal tendinopathy. It works by:
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Reducing tendon pain
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Stimulating local healing
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Improving blood flow
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Helping the tendon tolerate load again
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At Redrock Physio, shockwave is offered as a £20 add-on alongside physiotherapy sessions and is delivered using the MASTERPULS® MP100.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does lying on my side hurt so much?
Side-lying compresses the gluteal tendons. As the tendon becomes irritated, this pressure becomes painful. Adjusting sleep position and reducing compression quickly helps.
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Do I need an MRI?
Usually not. GTPS is diagnosed clinically with movement testing and palpation. Imaging only becomes relevant if symptoms are unusual or don’t follow the expected pattern.
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Will strengthening make it worse?
When progressed correctly, strengthening is the key to long-term improvement. We start gently and build confidence gradually.
Related Pages
You may find these pages helpful:
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Book GTPS Treatment in St Albans
Whether you’re struggling to sleep on your side, walk comfortably, or climb stairs without pain, we can help you get moving with confidence again.
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Address
Catherine House, Ground Floor
Adelaide Street
St Albans
AL3 5BA​​
Telephone
01727 309 915
