This pilot randomised controlled trial will directly compare the effect of isometric exercise to isotonic exercise over a period of 12 weeks for participants with a clinical diagnosis of Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS).
Pain at the side of the hip over or around the greater trochanter of the femur has previously been termed as Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS). Recent research has found that it is normally due to the gluteal tendons being torn or injured and is often termed as 'gluteal tendinopathy'. GTPS predominantly affects adults aged 40-60 years and is the second most common condition affecting the hip region after osteoarthritis. Quality of life scores are similar to those with advanced hip osteoarthritis but despite its prevalence and disease burden the most effective treatment for this problem is currently unknown. Numerous studies have shown that exercise programmes are the most effective treatment for other lower limb tendon problems, particularly the Achilles and patella. These programmes typically last a minimum of 12 weeks and are often prescribed by physiotherapists as first-line treatment. However, there is currently limited evidence to support exercise for gluteal tendinopathy. The study plans to directly compare two different types of exercise programmes for those with GTPS for a period of 12 weeks. One group will receive an isometric exercise programme (where the muscle length does not change) and a second group an isotonic exercise programme (where the muscle length does change). The primary outcome measure which will be used has recently been validated for patients with gluteal tendinopathy and measures function and disability. Additional secondary outcome measures will evaluate aspects relating to quality of life, physical activity and pain. Both groups will be compared at the start of the study and at different times up to a maximum of 12 weeks to help determine if one exercise programme is better than the other. The results of this pilot study will also help to identify whether a larger trial would be possible in the future.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
30
Exercise programme where the muscle length and joint angle do not change due to the limb being held in a static position
Exercise programme where both the muscle length and joint angle do change, consisting of concentric muscle actions (where the muscle shortens) and eccentric muscle actions (where the muscle lengthens)
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde
Glasgow, United Kingdom
Measure of disability
Change in score on Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment-Gluteal (VISA-G) questionnaire
Time frame: Baseline, 4 weeks and 12 weeks
Quality of Life
Change in score on European Quality of Life (EQ-5D-5L) questionnaire
Time frame: Baseline, 4 weeks and 12 weeks
Perceived change in hip pain
Change in score on Global Rating of Change (GROC) Scale
Time frame: Baseline, 4 weeks and 12 weeks
Pain intensity
Change in score on Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS)
Time frame: Baseline, 4 weeks and 12 weeks
Pain catastrophisation
Change in score on Pain Catastrophising Scale
Time frame: Baseline, 4 weeks and 12 weeks
Hip disability
Change in score on Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS)
Time frame: Baseline, 4 weeks and 12 weeks
Physical activity
Change in score on International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form (IPAQ-SF)
Time frame: Baseline, 4 weeks and 12 weeks
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