Hip Flexor Injury

What is a Hip Flexor Injury?

A hip flexor strain/sprain is a tear or rupture of any one of the muscles of the hip flexor group, resulting in pain in the front of the hip and/or groin. Hip flexor injuries can range from very mild to very severe.

 

Diagnosis:

There are three different degrees of hip flexor strain/sprain;

  • Grade 1: When the muscle and/or tendon is over stretched or there is a minor tear. May be able to walk without pain, but running, jumping, kicking and/or stretching may cause pain
  • Grade 2: When there is a moderate tearing of the muscle and/or tendon. Experiencing pain walking, bringing knees towards the chest, running, jumping, kicking and/or stretching.
  • Grade 3: When there is tearing to a significant percentage of the muscle or tendon. Usually a sudden, sharp pain at the time of injury. Using the injured muscle will be painful when using it at all. There is usually significant bruising and swelling of injured area.

 

Symptoms:

Symptoms common with hip flexor strain and sprains

  • Pain and/or tenderness in the front of the hip and/or into the groin
  • Pressure into the front of the hip
  • Pain when bringing knees into chest
  • Pain when raising the knees (ie. climbing up stairs)
  • Varied degrees of strength loss
  • Varied degrees of function loss, loss in range of motion

If you experience any of the above symptoms, seek medical attention.

 

Causes:

Common causes of hip flexor injury include;

  • Over stretching of the muscle
  • Sudden contraction of the hip flexor muscles
  • During running, skating, jumping, kicking etc.
  • During rapid and/or explosive movements of the leg against resistance
  • Falling
  • Improper lifting of heavy objects
  • Improper warm up
  • Fatigue

 

Treatment:

Hip flexor injuries can get progressively worse without treatment, it is important to receive treatment via;

  • Immediately post injury, follow the RICE method
  • Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen (consult doctor before taking any medications)
    • Rest
    • Ice
    • Compression
    • Elevation
  • Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen (consult doctor before taking any medications)
  • Bracing, taping, or other supportive products

Depending on severity you may need to seek other forms of treatment such as;

  • Physical therapy
  • Massage therapy
  • Stretching
  • Ultrasound
  • Electrotherapy
  • Acupuncture

Prevention:

Some preventative measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of hip flexor injuries include;

  • Stretching
  • Proper warm-up before activity
  • Strengthening of the quads, hip flexors and glutes
  • Increase the intensity and length of exercise gradually
  • Use proper equipment including shoes when exercising or participating in sports
  • Stay hydrated, this ensures your muscles and tendons are well lubricated
  • Get help with lifting heavy objects
  • Increase muscular strength in the core and pelvic floor