How Shockwave Therapy Can Effectively Treat Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS) in Menopausal Women
Struggling with Persistent Hip Pain?
If you’ve been experiencing ongoing pain on the outer side of your hip, particularly when lying on your side, walking, or climbing stairs, you may have Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS). This condition, often misdiagnosed as hip arthritis or bursitis, is a common cause of chronic lateral hip pain that can significantly impact mobility and daily life.
GTPS frequently affects middle-aged women due to hormonal changes that influence tendon health, collagen production, and muscle function. The condition can also develop from repetitive movements, poor biomechanics, or sudden increases in activity levels. If you’ve tried physiotherapy, stretching, or pain medications with limited success, Radial Shockwave Therapy (RSWT) could be the missing link to your recovery.
Symptoms of Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS)
GTPS is primarily caused by inflammation or degeneration of the tendons that attach to the greater trochanter of the femur. Common symptoms include:
Pain and tenderness on the outer hip, especially when pressing on the area
Discomfort while sleeping on the affected side
Pain when walking, climbing stairs, or getting up from a seated position
Stiffness and reduced mobility in the hip
Worsening symptoms after prolonged standing or physical activity
Why Does GTPS Occur in Women More Frequently?
Hormonal changes, particularly a decline in oestrogen levels, can weaken tendons and make them more susceptible to injury. This is why GTPS is more common in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women. Oestrogen plays a role in collagen synthesis and tissue repair, so a reduction in this hormone can lead to slower healing, increased tendon degeneration, and greater susceptibility to inflammation.
Other contributing factors include:
Weak gluteal muscles, leading to poor hip stability
Overuse injuries from repetitive activities like running or cycling
Tight iliotibial (IT) band, which can put excess stress on the hip tendons
Poor biomechanics, such as excessive hip adduction or leg length discrepancies
How Radial Shockwave Therapy (RSWT) Can Help
Radial Shockwave Therapy is an effective, non-invasive treatment that targets chronic tendon pain and inflammation. RSWT works by delivering high-energy acoustic waves to the affected area, stimulating blood flow, breaking down adhesions, and encouraging tendon regeneration.
Key benefits of RSWT for GTPS:
Reduces pain and inflammation in the hip tendons
Stimulates collagen production, aiding tendon repair
Improves circulation to accelerate healing
Breaks down calcifications and scar tissue, restoring normal function
Provides a non-surgical solution with long-lasting relief
What to Expect During RSWT Treatment
At Midtown Wellness we offer expert RSWT treatments tailored to your individual needs. Our trained osteopaths and physiotherapists will assess your condition and develop a personalised treatment plan.
Your treatment plan will typically include:
5-6 RSWT sessions, spaced 7-10 days apart, to allow for progressive tissue repair.
Each session lasts 15-30 minutes, during which controlled shockwaves are applied to the affected hip area.
A pulsing or tapping sensation may be felt, but the intensity can be adjusted to ensure patient comfort.
Gradual pain reduction and improved mobility, with most patients experiencing noticeable relief after just a few sessions.
Additional Treatment Options: Osteopathy & Physiotherapy
While RSWT is highly effective, a combined approach with osteopathy or physiotherapy can further enhance recovery.
Osteopathy & Physiotherapy Can Help By:
Addressing biomechanical issues contributing to GTPS
Improving gluteal muscle strength and hip stability
Providing soft tissue release to relieve muscle tightness
Guiding an individualised rehabilitation programme
Supporting Your Recovery with Rehabilitation
To maximise the benefits of RSWT, a structured rehabilitation plan is recommended alongside treatment. This may include:
Strengthening exercises for the glutes and hip abductors
Stretching and mobility drills to improve flexibility
Ice therapy to manage post-treatment inflammation
Activity modification strategies to prevent flare-ups
What Do the Studies Say?
Clinical research shows that 70-85% of patients with GTPS experience significant pain relief and improved functionafter RSWT. Many patients who have struggled with persistent hip pain achieve long-term recovery without the need for steroid injections or surgery.
Why Choose Midtown Wellness?
At Midtown Wellness, Covent Garden, London, we specialise in evidence-based RSWT treatments, combined with expert osteopathy and physiotherapy care. Our team is dedicated to providing non-invasive, long-term solutions for chronic tendon pain. We are recognised by major health insurers, including Bupa, AXA, and Healix.
If GTPS is impacting your daily life, don’t wait any longer. Book an appointment with us today and take the first step towards pain-free movement!
