The Run Smarter Podcast cover image

The Run Smarter Podcast

Refuting Gluteal Tendinopathy Myths with Alison Grimaldi

Apr 20, 2025
01:01:35

Learn more about Brodie's Research Database & AI Assistant 📄🔍

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Alison joins Brodie to dismantle outdated myths, clarify diagnoses, and break down exactly what runners should (and shouldn't) do if dealing with this lateral hip condition.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:

👩‍⚕️ 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/   


For MORE Run Smarter Resources 🏃‍♂️📚
- Including Free Injury Prevention Courses 🩹🎓
- The Run Smarter Book 📖
- Access to Research Papers 📄🔍
- & Ways to Work with Brodie 🤝👟
👉 CLICK HERE! 🎉✨

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts

Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
App store bannerPlay store banner