Hip Strain Anatomy

Hip Strain Anatomy
Home > Hip Strain What is a hip strain? To understand, it helps to take a look at the anatomy of the hip. Your hip flexors are the muscles which move the hips forward when you run, walk, sprint, or kick. When a great deal of stress is applied to this muscle group, as is common amongst professional athletes, a hip strain or hip flexor strain may be sustained. Hip strains vary in degree from: Mild – stretching or minor tearing of the muscle tissue Moderate – partial tearing of the muscle tissue Severe – a complete tear of the muscle tissue Hip Strain Causes Most commonly, hip strains have a gradual onset and are the result of overuse. A hip strain can also occur as the result of: Injury, such as a fall Already stretched muscle contracts suddenly Direct blow (contusion) to the muscle Failure to warm up before exercising Attempting to do too much too soon Risk increases when a prior injury to the area has been sustained Hip Strain Symptoms Depending on the severity of the damage or injury, symptoms of a hip strain include: Pain Stiffness Swelling Bruising Pain aggravated with use/hip movement Muscle tenderness Loss of muscle strength Difficulty walking Hip Strain Treatment Depending on the extent of the damage or injury, treatment for a hip strain includes: Rest Elevating the legs Applying ice or cold compress Anti-inflammatory, pain relief medications Physical therapy Hip flexor muscle stretches Hip Flexor Strain Prevention Since “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” here are some guidelines to help avoid straining the muscles around your hip: During your regular workouts, focus on exercises which build hip muscle strength and flexibility and which increase mobility and balance Always warm up and stretch before exercising/playing sports Wear correct gear when participating in sports activities Original article and pictures take http://www.backandneck.ca/hip-strain/ site