
The Run Smarter Podcast
Refuting Gluteal Tendinopathy Myths with Alison Grimaldi
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Today, we're joined by internationally renowned physiotherapist, researcher, and hip guru, Dr. Alison Grimaldi, to tackle one of the most misunderstood running-related injuries: gluteal tendinopathy.
Alison joins Brodie to dismantle outdated myths, clarify diagnoses, and break down exactly what runners should (and shouldn't) do if dealing with this lateral hip condition.
🧠 What You'll Learn:
- ✅ What gluteal tendinopathy is and how it presents
- ❌ Why you shouldn’t rely on imaging for diagnosis or treatment decisions
- 🚫 The truth about ITB stretches, clamshells, and corticosteroid injections
- 🏋️♀️ The exercises that actually work — including progressive loading and isometrics
- 🔁 Key biomechanical contributors like crossover step width and pelvic drop
- 🛏️ Lifestyle strategies to reduce aggravation (sleeping positions, sitting habits, running terrain)
- 🧬 Why partial tendon tears don’t mean you’re doomed (and rarely require surgery)
🛠 Practical Takeaways:
- Diagnosis Tip: The combination of pain on palpation + 30-second single-leg stance test = 99% diagnostic accuracy.
- Rehab Advice: Build tendon tolerance with progressive strength work — clamshells won’t cut it!
- Avoid Pitfalls: Passive treatments (like steroid injections or repeated stretching) often delay recovery.
- Movement Fixes: Widen step width, increase cadence, and avoid road cambers if they aggravate your symptoms.
🔗 Resources Mentioned:
- Dr. Alison Grimaldi’s website & self-help course: https://dralisongrimaldi.com/online-courses/
- Gluteal Tendinopathy Masterclass paper (Musculoskeletal Science and Practice, 2023)
👩⚕️ About Dr. Alison Grimaldi:
With 30+ years in clinical practice and a PhD in hip rehabilitation, Alison is a leader in hip research and physio education. She teaches worldwide and has developed evidence-based rehab programs for both professionals and the general public.
Follow her on social media:
📸 Instagram: @dralisongrimaldi
Website: https://dralisongrimaldi.com/
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