Psoas Muscle Pain - Symptoms and Pain Relief
What is Psoas?
Psoas is a large and powerful hip flexor muscle. It connects the vertebrae (back bones) to the top of the femur (thigh bone). It essentially helps attach the lower body to the upper body, a very important muscle.
Psoas is part of the Iliopsoas system, which includes both the Psoas and Iliacus muscles. These muscles are often referred to together due to their similar functions and their tendency to become tight and cause discomfort and pain as a unit.
What does Psoas muscle pain feel like?
Psoas muscle pain, or psoas syndrome, can manifest in a variety of different ways, depending on the severity of the injury or tightness. The type of pain felt by most people is a deep, aching pain often difficult to pinpoint. Here is what is most commonly felt by those with psoas pain:
Lower back pain: The Psoas muscle tightens or contracts, this can pull on the spine which causes the low back pain. Commonly felt in people who sit for long periods of time.
Hip and groin pain
Pelvic pain: A deep sharp stabbing pain felt in the lower abdomen, this pain is often confused with gastrointestinal or reproductive issues.
Difficulty standing up straight
Difficulty Walking or Standing Upright: Severe psoas pain can make it difficult to walk or stand upright. The discomfort might cause a person to walk with a limp or to bend forward slightly to alleviate the tension.
Tightness or Stiffness: Many people report a sense of tightness or stiffness in the hip area, making it difficult to fully extend the leg or move freely.
Sharp or stabbing pain: in some cases the pain can be sharp when doing certain movements like lifting your leg or bending over.
Throbbing or radiating pain: the pain might radiate down the front of the thigh or buttocks. This can feel like a throbbing or spreading discomfort.
Pain Relief for Psoas
Relieving pain associated with the psoas muscle involves a combination of strategies to reduce inflammation, relax the muscle, and address the underlying causes of the discomfort. Your physiotherapist will assess you and come up with a bespoke plan for you. Here are some of effective approaches used:
Rest
Activity modification
Stretching and gentle exercises
Foam rolling
Physical therapy
Posture and Ergonomics
Over the counter pain relievers
If you're experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Contact the clinic today for a consultation.
Physiotherapy
We specialise in the treatment and prevention of injuries and conditions. If you are suffering with any health aliments that you feel we could help you with, get in touch today. We provide treatment for a wide age range from 9 years to 90 years old.