Gluteal Strain
The gluteals are a group of four muscles, three of which make up the buttocks. This group of muscles provide stability to the hip and play a major role in walking and running as well as flexing the trunk. A gluteal strain is usually the result of over-stretching one or more of the gluteal muscles.
What causes a gluteal strain?
A gluteal strain is most commonly caused in during a high impact activity such as running, jumping or dancing for example. This may also happen in a sport such as football where the muscle group is put under sudden demand from a static/almost static position. This places the gluteal muscles under excessive strain causing micro-tears to the muscle belly.
What are the symptoms of a gluteal strain?
Symptoms may include one or more of the following:
- Pain in the buttocks, particularly when going up and down stairs, sitting or moving backwards
- Stiffness of the gluteal muscles, particularly noticeable on activity
- Weakness during activity that you would usually undertake with ease
- Bruising in the buttock region
Physiotherapy treatment for a gluteal strain
Early physiotherapy intervention is essential in the recovery of a gluteal strain.
At Cleethorpes Physio Clinic the initial focus of treatment will be on reducing pain and promoting range of movement. We will then begin to tailor a rehabilitation program around your specific needs to improve muscle strength and work towards returning you safely back to your sporting and everyday activities in a timely and confident fashion.
Physiotherapy treatment may include:
- Ice therapy to promote healing and reduce pain (early stage)
- Advice on activity modification and
- Ultrasound to promote healing
- Heat therapy to reduce pain and increase flexibility (later stage)
- Soft tissue massage to lengthen tight muscles
- Specific strengthening and stability exercises including Swiss ball
- Myofacial release
- Sport specific rehabilitation











