Hip Flexor Strain

Hip Flexor Strain

What is a Hip Flexor Strain?

A hip flexor strain is an overuse injury to the flexor muscles of your hip and can range from a minor stretch injury to a complete tear of the muscle fibers or tendons.

The hip flexors are several muscles that allow the flexion movement (bending) of your hip and include the following:

• Psoas major muscle
• Iliacus muscle
• Rectus femoris muscle
• Pectineus muscle
• Sartorius muscle

The severity of a hip flexor strain can grade as follows:

• Grade 1 tear: A few muscle fibers are damaged
• Grade 2 tear: Damage to significant muscle fibers with moderate loss of muscle function
• Grade 3 tear: The muscles are torn or ruptured completely and you usually can’t walk without a limp

What are the Causes of Hip Flexor Strain?

The common causes of a hip flexor strain include:

• A fall or a slip
• A sudden blow to the hip flexor muscles
• Too much exercise in a short time
• Activities involving repetitive movements such as cycling, jumping, dancing, martial arts, and football

What are the Symptoms of Hip Flexor Strain?

You may experience a tearing or popping sound when the injury occurs. Common symptoms include:

• Pain while stretching your leg or bending towards your torso
• Muscle spasms at the thigh or hip
• Tenderness, swelling and bruising around the hip

How is Hip Flexor Strain Diagnosed?

Diagnosis of a hip flexor strain includes a review of your symptoms and medical history. A physical examination will be performed by your doctor to check the affected hip for pain, swelling, and inflammation. X-ray’s, CT-scan or MRI scanning may be ordered. 

What is the Treatment for Hip Flexor Strain?

Your doctor may suggest the following treatment options:

• Rest: Rest your hip by refraining from the activities that may cause further injury. 
• Ice packs: Use of ice packs may be suggested to reduce inflammation.
• Compression: Wrapping your hip with an elastic bandage or compression stocking can help minimize the swelling and support your hip.
• Elevation: Elevating your leg above heart level will also help reduce swelling and pain. 
• Pain medications: A combination of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and opioids may be used to manage pain.
• Exercise: Physical therapy exercises will be taught to enhance your flexibility, range of motion and strength.

Grade 3 injuries may require surgery to repair the torn muscles and tendons.