April 12, 2024

Cortisone injections can be useful for managing the symptoms of gluteus medius tendinopathy and bursitis (also known medically as greater trochanteric pain syndrome) by reducing inflammation in the bursa itself and helping reduce your pain levels. However, did you know that relying solely on cortisone injections may not be the best long-term management strategy?  

Here are the reasons why and further suggestions of how to maximise your rehab through engaging in Physiotherapy:  

  • It doesn’t address the underlying cause: While cortisone injections can provide temporary relief by reducing inflammation and pain, they do not address the underlying biomechanical issues or contributing factors that led to the tendinopathy in the first place. Physiotherapy aims to identify and address these underlying causes, which may include muscle imbalances, poor movement patterns, or biomechanical dysfunctions. 
  • Identifying contributing factors to your tendon story: Hormonal influences, cardiac medications, new activities endeavours, back pain, hip osteoarthritis and conditions like long COVID19 put you at higher risk of a tendon issue like greater trochanteric pain syndrome. Physiotherapists can help you sort through these individualised factors and work out an appropriate plan with you and your GP, if needed.  
  • Risk of tendon weakening: Prolonged or repeated cortisone injections may weaken the tendon over time and increase the risk of tendon rupture. Physiotherapy interventions such as strengthening exercises, manual therapy, and corrective movement patterns aim to strengthen the tendon and surrounding muscles, reducing the risk of further injury. 
  • Incomplete rehabilitation: Cortisone injections may provide short-term pain relief, which can lead individuals to neglect or delay engaging in necessary rehabilitation exercises. Physiotherapy focuses on comprehensive rehabilitation, including strengthening, flexibility, proprioception, and functional training, to optimize long-term outcomes and prevent future recurrences. These rehab plans can happen at home, using your local gym membership or you can join an OHL Group Physio class to complete your rehab in a supervised, responsive setting.  
  • Risk of Side Effects: Cortisone injections carry potential side effects, including infection, tendon rupture, skin discoloration, and temporary flare-up of symptoms. Physiotherapy interventions are generally considered safe and have minimal risk of adverse effects when performed by qualified professionals. 

In summary, while cortisone injections can be a useful adjunct to physiotherapy in the management of gluteus medius tendinopathy and bursitis, they are typically not recommended as a standalone treatment due to their limited ability to address underlying causes, potential risks, and incomplete rehabilitation. A comprehensive physiotherapy approach that includes targeted exercises, manual therapy, and functional rehabilitation is often preferred for optimizing long-term outcomes and preventing recurrence.  

Get in touch to start your individualised assessment and physio-led rehabilitation program today by calling 9431 5955 or you can book with an OHL Physiotherapist via our Client Portal on our website.  





More Optimal Tips

In the Saddle: Unveiling Physiotherapists' Perspectives on the Therapeutic Marvels of Bike Riding
In the Saddle: Unveiling Physiotherapists' Perspectives on the Therapeutic Marvels of Bike Riding

December 05, 2023

There are many advantages of incorporating bike riding into your exercise regime. Physiotherapists recognise its therapeutic impact on joint health, emphasising range of motion and lubrication of the lower limb joints through low-impact motion. Bike riding is also a strength-building activity that engages major muscle groups and contributes to cardiovascular fitness. Additionally, the social and mental well-being aspects of cycling are highlighted, underscoring its role as a versatile and strategic tool in the physiotherapist's toolkit for a holistic approach to well-being.

Continue Reading

Bowled over by a shoulder injury? Here’s how you can restore your bowling performance to its pre-injury level.
Bowled over by a shoulder injury? Here’s how you can restore your bowling performance to its pre-injury level.

December 05, 2023

“When can I throw again?” is one of the most common questions asked by any overhead athlete post a shoulder injury or surgery. The answer to this question is multifaceted, as it depends on the timeframe from the injury, certain subjective and objective measures, as well as the athlete’s willingness. However, the simple answer is when the athlete is fully ready, and not before. This blog will highlight the prerequisites and the process of progressive return to bowling for cricketers after they’ve injured their shoulder.

Continue Reading

The degree of tissue damage does not align directly with the level of pain I am experiencing?
The degree of tissue damage does not align directly with the level of pain I am experiencing?

December 05, 2023

This blog delves into the progressive evolution of pain comprehension in physiotherapy, challenging the oversimplified link between physical injury and pain intensity. Pain science introduces a dynamic communication system influenced by biological, psychological, and social factors, emphasizing a holistic approach. The biopsychosocial model guides effective pain management, emphasizing education, self-management, and targeted exercises to empower individuals and promote a sustainable, patient-centric recovery.

Continue Reading