Hip Flexor Strain: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
The hip flexor muscles are connected from the pelvis, lower back and groin area to the femur bone. Their job is to move the femur bone upwards toward your chest, flexing the hip joint. The two main muscles in this group are iliopsoas and rectus femoris.
Causes of a hip flexor strain
A hip flexor strain can be a common complaint from people participating in sporting or recreational activities. Injuries to the hip flexors most frequently occur because of a strenuous hip flexing motion, such as kicking, running or jumping. An injury may also occur from over-stretching the muscle, which would result from a backward movement of the thigh. In a previous post I explained the different grades of muscle strains. Please click on this link to find out more.
Symptoms of hip flexor pain
Tenderness, pain or discomfort at the front of the hip joint.
Sudden, sharp pain in the hip or front of the pelvis after trauma to the area.
Muscle spasm, cramping or clenching sensation in the muscles of the thigh.
Difficulty or inability to continue sprinting, kicking or jumping.
Reduced mobility and discomfort when moving, this may include a limp.
Tightness or stiffness at the front of the hip after sitting or lying.
Loss of strength at the front of the groin/ hip area.
Swelling or bruising around the hip or thigh region.
Treatment for hip flexor strain
The treatment for a hip flexor strain is similar to any other muscle strain. Rest from aggravating factor or modification of this activity is important, to give the muscle time to repair and recover. Your physiotherapist will complete a thorough assess to create an individualised rehabilitation programme to suit your specific needs. This will include range of movement, strengthening and functional exercises. The aim of your rehabilitation programme is to get you back to activity as soon as possible and try to prevent further injury.
Tips for prevention of hip flexor strain
It’s always best to try and prevent an injury rather than recovering from one. Completing a thorough warm up and cool down while exercising can help prepare your muscles for exercise and reduce muscle soreness post training. This will also include stretching and ensuring you have adequate mobility for your desired activity. It is also important to remember to approach your training in a progressive manner, allowing the body to adapt and adjust to the increase in training volume, intensity or frequency.
If you feel the start of a hip flexor strain it is advisable to get it looked at early to prevent further injury and a longer recovery period. Don’t let a hip flexor injury prevent you from staying fit and active this summer! Contact us here at Ballsbridge Physiotherapy Clinic to book your appointment today. We have both early morning and evening appointments to suit your busy schedule.