Our Practice
Locations FAQ Our System Si Hablamos Español Patient Portal
(715) 832-1400
Request an Appointment
Skip to Content
REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT
REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT
Abductor Tendon Repair - Dr. Nathaniel Stewart
Hip | Surgical

Abductor Tendon Repair

A surgical solution for a frequently missed diagnosis that causes persistent lateral hip pain and a distinctive limping gait pattern.

Surgical
Procedure type
~20-40 minutes
Procedure time
3-6 months
Recovery
Often misdiagnosed
as bursitis
Overview

Overview - What is Abductor Tendon Repair?

The hip abductor tendons, primarily the gluteus medius and gluteus minimus, are responsible for stabilizing the pelvis during walking and movement. When these tendons are torn or significantly damaged, patients experience persistent pain along the outside of the hip and often develop a Trendelenburg gait, a characteristic limping pattern in which the pelvis drops to one side with each step.

Abductor tendon tears are one of the most frequently missed diagnoses in hip care, often attributed to bursitis or general hip pain for months or years before the correct diagnosis is made. PRP injections are used by Dr. Stewart’s team for the treatment of abductor tendonitis and abductor tendon tears as a non-surgical option among many other non- surgical options such as rest, ice, heat and physical therapy. When conservative treatments have failed to provide adequate relief, surgical repair is the most reliable way to restore strength, stability, and normal walking mechanics.

Candidacy - Who Is a Good Candidate?

Abductor tendon repair may be appropriate if you have experienced persistent lateral hip pain and any of the following apply:

  • Confirmed abductor tendon tear on MRI
  • Lateral hip pain that has not responded to physical therapy, injections, or activity modification
  • A noticeable limp or weakness when walking
  • Difficulty with stairs, rising from a chair, or single leg activities
  • Prior diagnosis of trochanteric bursitis that has not improved with treatment
What to Expect

Recovery Timeline

Day of Surgery
Outpatient procedure
Abductor tendon repair is typically performed as an outpatient procedure. Crutches are required immediately after surgery to protect the repair.
Week 6 to 12
Protected weight bearing
Crutches or a walker is used for 6-12 weeks to allow the repaired tendon to heal securely. Physical therapy begins with gentle range of motion and activation exercises.
Week 6 to 12
Progressive strengthening
As healing progresses, weight bearing increases and physical therapy focuses on rebuilding hip strength and stability.
Month 3 to 6
Return to function
Most patients experience significant improvement in pain and gait by 3 months. Full recovery and return to activity typically occurs between 4 and 6 months depending on the extent of the repair.
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

An MRI is the most reliable way to diagnose an abductor tendon tear. If you have persistent lateral hip pain, a noticeable limp, or weakness when walking that has not improved with conservative treatment, Dr. Stewart will order appropriate imaging an MRI during your consultation.
Not always. The chance of needing surgery depends on the size of the tear, whether you have attempted non-operative treatments (such as physical therapy), and your response to or preferences regarding non-operative treatments. It also depends on the physical activities you want to perform. PRP injections have been found to be effective in some cases at treating tendon issues and helping to accelerate the healing process of damaged or injured tendons. Surgery is recommended when conservative measures have been exhausted and the tear is causing significant functional limitation.
Abductor tendon tears produce symptoms that overlap with trochanteric bursitis, IT band syndrome, and general hip arthritis. Without an MRI specifically evaluating the tendon, the diagnosis is easily overlooked. Dr. Stewart is experienced in identifying and treating this condition in patients who have been told their pain is something else.
Before Your Surgery

Surgical Risk Assessment Form

Please review this form before your pre-op visit. It helps Dr. Stewart's team identify and address any modifiable risk factors ahead of surgery. Click below to view it right here on the page.

Take the first step

Ready to Get Back to Doing What You Love?

Dr. Stewart and his team are here to guide you through every step, from your first consultation to your full recovery.

Book Your Appointment Today