The iliopsoas muscle originates from the lower back and pelvis and inserts into the thigh bone (femur).The illiacus originates from the pelvis and inserts into the thigh bone as well.
The hip flexors are responsible for moving the knee towards the chest (i.e. bending the hip) during activity and are particularly active when sprinting or kicking. Whenever the hip flexors contract or are put under stretch, tension is placed through the hip flexor muscle fibers. When this tension is excessive due to too much repetition or high force, the hip flexor muscle fibers may tear. When this occurs, the condition is known as a hip flexor strain. Tears to the hip flexors can range from a small partial tear whereby there is minimal pain and minimal loss of function, to a complete rupture whereby there is a sudden episode of severe pain and significant disability.
Patients with acute injury usually feel a sudden sharp pain or pulling sensation in the front of the hip or groin: however, the pain of chronic hip strain is a dull ache in the thigh or groin, and or the low back. (Chronic unresponsive low back pain may result from hip flexor injury). Patients with this condition usually experience pain when lifting the knee towards the chest (especially against resistance) or during activities such as running, kicking or going upstairs. It is also common for patients to experience pain or stiffness after rest, especially upon waking in the morning. Swelling, tenderness and bruising may also be present in the hip flexor muscles.
Treatment at Renew Chiropractic in Lakewood for hip flexor strain consists of:
- restore postural distortions using Chiropractic Biophysics (CBP)
- 3-dimensional mirror image exercises
- joint mobilization (especially the lower back and hip)
- synaptogenesis-neuroplasticity
- ice or heat treatment
- progressive exercises to improve strength and flexibility (particularly of the hip flexors)
- three dimensional postural analysis
- activity modification advice – establishment of an appropriate return to activity or sport plan
Are you or a loved one experiencing hip pain? Call Dr. Jason Jumper at Renew Chiropractic in Lakewood today! We can help! .