16/11/2025
Gluteus Medius Muscle Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Management
Pain in the gluteus medius—a key muscle located on the outer side of the hip—is a common issue that often presents as discomfort along the outside of the hip. This condition can result from overuse, injury, or inflammation of the tendon, known as Gluteus Medius Tendinopathy.
✅ Symptoms
Common symptoms include:
• Pain on the outer side of the hip, which worsens with movement or when lying on the affected side.
• Tenderness over the greater trochanter, the bony prominence on the side of the hip.
• Difficulty walking for long periods or climbing stairs due to discomfort or weakness.
• A positive Trendelenburg Sign: when standing on one leg (the affected side), the pelvis drops toward the opposite side, indicating weakness of the gluteus medius.
✅Causes
Several factors may contribute to gluteus medius pain:
• Muscle inflammation or minor tears caused by overuse, such as from running, intense workouts, or sudden heavy movements.
• Tendinopathy: degeneration, inflammation, or thickening of the tendon due to repetitive stress.
• Underlying hip or lower-back issues, such as hip osteoarthritis, bursitis, or lumbar disc problems, which can cause referred pain to the gluteal region.
✅Treatment and Self-Care
Effective management usually involves a combination of rest, controlled movement, and supportive therapies:
1. Rest and Activity Modification
Avoid activities that worsen the pain, but maintain gentle movement to promote blood circulation and prevent stiffness.
2. Cold and Heat Therapy
• For recent or acute injuries, use ice packs to reduce inflammation.
• For chronic muscle tightness, apply heat before exercise or stretching to loosen the muscles.