The utilization of an isometric protocol during the early intervention of chronic gluteus Medius tendinopathy: case report

Abstract Background and Purpose: Chronic hip pain is just a way of life for many Americans. Of those individuals experiencing hip pain, many are due to Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS). GTPS is often caused by a tendinopathy of the Gluteus Medius tendon. This case study follows the evaluation and treatment of a patient with hip pain consistent with GTPS. Case Description: The patient’s main concerns are chronic hip pain that limits her participation in daily activities such as her walking routine or climbing stairs. She presents with weakness of hip stabilizers and is at increased risk of falls. The primary intervention used to manage her tendinopathy symptoms is an isometric protocol outlined by other studies. Outcomes: The patient experienced positive outcomes and responded well to the treatments. The outcome measures used were Manual Muscle Testing, the Lower Extremity Functional Scale, and a Single Leg Stance time. Her muscle strength increased and she was able to score better on the outcome measures used to determine her impairment level. Discussion: The patient’s positive response to the isometric protocol suggests the protocol can be effective for the treatment of GTPS. When considering this treatment option for a patient it is important to remember further research is needed to confirm the efficacy of the protocol. At this time it is uncertain if this protocol is more effective than other physical therapy interventions