The condition
The gluteus medius and minimus are muscles on the side of the hip that keep the pelvis level when you walk. Their tendons attach to the outer hip bone (greater trochanter) and can wear and tear over time, causing pain on the side of the hip, trouble lying on that side, and a limp.
The surgery
This is a typically outpatient surgery done through a small open incision. The torn tendons are reattached to the bone with small anchors and sutures. The inflamed bursa may be removed and a tight IT band lengthened. Large or older tears may be reinforced with a graft. The final plan is determined during surgery.
Recovery at a glance
- Weight-bearing
- Foot flat with ~20 lb of weight and 2 crutches for 6 weeks (8 for larger tears), then weaned over ~2 weeks; most are off crutches, without a limp, by 8–10 weeks.
- Precautions
- Hip brace for 6 weeks. For 6 weeks: no crossing your legs, no lying on the surgical side, and no lifting the leg out to the side. Sleep with a pillow between your knees.
- Daily life
- Desk work often within 2 weeks. Stationary bike from 4 weeks. No driving while taking narcotic pain medication.
- Activity
- Band and weight strengthening from 12 weeks. Full release typically 4–6 months; running (if your goals require it) not before 18 weeks.
A general guide. Your restrictions and timeline may change based on what is found and done at surgery.
Risks & benefits
Benefits: Most patients have less side-hip pain and less of a limp. Risks are uncommon and include infection, blood clots, re-tear or incomplete healing of the tendon, an ongoing limp or side-hip pain, injury to nearby structures (such as nerves, blood vessels, or cartilage), stiffness, persistent pain, and the need for further surgery. These will be reviewed with you in detail before surgery.
Patient Surgical Information
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Before & after every surgery