Hip flexor Tendinopathy

The Psoas major muscle – a major hip flexor – attaches deep inside the front of the hip joint to the lesser trochanter (a bony prominence on the front of the femur). Psoas tendinopathy is the inflammation and partial tearing of the muscle’s tendinous attachment, which occurs when the tendon becomes irritated.

 Hip flexor tendinopathy can be caused by:

·      Sport or work activities leading to overuse or injury to the hip joint area e.g. running, stair climbing.

·      Abnormal lower limb biomechanics or hip joint position, resulting in repeated stress on the soft tissues.

·      Previous surgery e.g. hip replacements, implants

·      Other conditions e.g. bursitis, bone spurs, calcium deposits, arthritis.

Symptoms of Psoas Tendinopathy include:

·      Pain on the inside of the groin, hip or thigh.

·      Pain aggravated by elevating the leg

·      Pain aggravated by prolonged sitting, walking up stairs, standing from a low chair or car.

·      Painful clicking in the hip

How can physiotherapy help?

Initial treatment involves reducing pain and inflammation, restoring hip movement and eventual, rehabilitation to allow for return to activity or sport.

Physiotherapy treatments may include any of a combination of soft tissue therapy, heat, cold, hip joint mobilisations in combination with a  guided home exercise program consisting of stretches, strengthening and range of motion exercises.

For more information, tips or advice on how Physiotherapy can assist you with your painful hip, call up your closest clinic today

Written by Eleni Tsagaris

Physiotherapist at Potts Point, Mona Vale and Brookvale