Hip abductor tendon damage is a rare but debilitating complication of hip replacement surgery. Our doctors are experts at correcting this.
Hip abductor tendon repair is a targeted surgical treatment designed to restore strength and stability in patients with torn or damaged tendons around the outer hip. These tendons, especially the gluteus medius and minimus, play a vital role in walking and maintaining balance. When injured, patients often experience pain, weakness, or a limp. The procedure involves reattaching the torn tendon to the greater trochanter using surgical anchors.
Repetitive strain: Activities like walking, running, or standing for long periods can overwork the tendons.
Tendon tears: Partial or full-thickness tears of the gluteus medius or minimus tendons commonly occur with age or sudden injury.
Hip instability: Abnormal gait or poor biomechanics may increase tendon stress and cause damage.
Age-related wear: As tendons weaken with age, they become more prone to degeneration and tearing.
Diagnosis begins with a clinical assessment focusing on hip pain, walking ability, and muscle strength. Common symptoms include pain when lying on the affected side, limping, and difficulty lifting the leg sideways. A physical exam is used to evaluate gait, tenderness, and weakness. Imaging tools such as MRI scans are essential to confirm tendon tears, inflammation, or degeneration. If conservative treatments like rest, physiotherapy, or injections are ineffective, surgical repair may be recommended to restore normal function and relieve ongoing pain.
Who it suits
After hip surgery, abducted tissue (that is scar tissue, swelling or changed muscle length/tension) can interfere with the overall function of the muscles around the hip. This can lead to weakness or altered biomechanics, which can cause the Trendelenburg lurch/gait. The Trendelenburg lurch/gait is when the hip drops on the opposite side whilst working.
There are several approaches to repairing this, including muscle transfer, muscle and tendon sling, and bone tendon allograft. Dr Lee, at MSK Doctors, is an expert in hip abductor tendon repair post-arthroplasty surgery.
Cost and paying
We offer a range of flexible payment options to make your treatment experience smooth and stress-free.
Most patients choose to self-fund their treatment. We accept:
We’ve partnered with GoCardless to offer interest-free instalment options. You can easily set up a Direct Debit to spread the cost of your treatment over time.
Looking for a financing plan? You can apply through Kandoo, our trusted finance partner.
We work with a small number of approved insurance providers. However, due to restrictions from many insurers, not all treatments are covered. Please check with your insurer and speak to our team before booking to avoid disappointment.
What happens
Use our website to book an initial consultation, or give us a call.
Our doctors might request you arrange a scan before your initial consultation. Or, they’ll chat with you (face to face or online) and recommend a scan after your initial consultation, if they think you need one.
Once your scan results have been reviewed, and your doctor has explained your options, you will be booked in for treatment.
Following your treatment, your doctor will give you rehab recommendations.
You will be booked in for a follow-up consultation, so your doctor can check your progress. You might need further rehab after this consultation.
Once your doctor is happy with your recovery, you will be discharged. After discharge, we are always here for further questions or support, should you need it.
How do I know if this treatment is suitable for me?
What is the recovery time?
London Cartilage Clinic
We now offer select services at our Harley Street London clinic through the London Cartilage Clinic, led by internationally recognised surgeon Professor Paul Lee.
Our London clinic offers advanced treatments like cartilage regeneration and joint preservation to help patients avoid or delay joint replacement.
Located in Central London, our clinic provides convenient access to world-class musculoskeletal care without long NHS wait times.
If you would like to be seen in Central London, visit our London Clinic page for pricing, available treatments, and to book directly online.
Our Harley Street clinic uses cutting-edge techniques designed to reduce downtime and support faster, more effective recovery, getting you back to your lifestyle sooner.
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