Focused Shockwave Therapy for Lateral Hip Pain– Sunshine Coast

Understanding Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome

Greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS) is a common cause of pain on the outside of the hip.

It frequently involves irritation or tendinopathy of the gluteus medius and gluteus minimus tendons, sometimes with associated irritation of nearby soft tissues.

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Symptoms may include:

• Pain when lying on the affected side

• Discomfort when walking or climbing stairs

• Tenderness over the outside of the hip

• Pain after prolonged standing

• Difficulty with running or other physical activities

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GTPS is sometimes referred to as trochanteric bursitis, although the gluteal tendons are often involved.

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How Can Focused Shockwave Therapy Help?

Focused shockwave therapy delivers acoustic pulses to selected treatment regions, including deeper tendon attachments around the greater trochanter.

Clinical studies have investigated shockwave therapy for persistent lateral hip pain, with some reporting improvements in pain and function.

However, findings vary between studies, and the evidence does not establish consistent superiority over other treatments.

Shockwave therapy may be considered alongside strengthening exercises and load management for selected patients.

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Who May Benefit?

Patients with persistent lateral hip pain who have not responded adequately to initial conservative treatment may benefit from assessment.

A careful examination is important to distinguish gluteal tendinopathy from hip osteoarthritis, lumbar referred pain and other conditions.

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What Happens During Treatment?

A specialised applicator delivers acoustic pulses to the selected region around the lateral hip.

Treatment is non-invasive. Temporary discomfort, tenderness or bruising may occur.

An individualised rehabilitation program may be recommended alongside treatment.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is lateral hip pain always bursitis?

No. Many cases involve the gluteal tendons rather than isolated inflammation of the bursa.

Can shockwave therapy help gluteal tendinopathy?

It may help some patients with persistent symptoms, although clinical results vary.

Should I continue strengthening exercises?

Appropriate hip strengthening and load management remain important parts of treatment.

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Book a Lateral Hip Pain Assessment

Persistent hip pain does not have to be managed without professional guidance.

Contact Shockwave Therapy Centre in Bli Bli, Sunshine Coast, to discuss whether focused shockwave therapy may be appropriate.

Phone: (07) 5441 6355

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Treatment recommendations are individualised, and improvement cannot be guaranteed.