What is a strained muscle in your hip?

A strained, or pulled, muscle occurs when one of the muscles that supports the hip joint is excessively stretched or torn.  Strained muscles can be mild, moderate, or severe.  These can be simple stretch, partially torn, or completely torn.  Your iliopsoas muscles are your hip flexors and bend your leg up at the hip in front of you.  Your hip flexors (primarily gluteus maximus) extends your leg behind you.  Your hamstring (back of your thigh) also extends your leg behind you.  Your hip abductors (gluteus medius, gluteus minimus, and tensor fascia latae) move your leg outward to the side.  Your hip adductor muscles bring your thighs back in together.

How does it occur?

Muscle strains usually occur while playing sports or similar activities but may also occur with normal activity.  Repetitive motions with normal everyday activity can also be the cause.  Warming up and stretching may help prevent them from occurring.

What are the symptoms?

Pain and tenderness are the main symptoms.  Pain increases when using the affected muscle.  Swelling, limited range of motion, and muscle weakness sometimes occur.

How is it diagnosed?

A thorough history and physical exam are used in diagnosis.  Range of motion and strength will be assessed with specific movements.  Focal points of tenderness will help identify affected muscles and tendons.  X-rays will be taken to assess bony structures, and an MRI will evaluate soft tissue for damage.

How does it occur?

Muscle strains usually occur while playing sports or similar activities but may also occur with normal activity.  Repetitive motions with normal everyday activity can also be the cause.  Warming up and stretching may help prevent them from occurring.

What are the symptoms?

Pain and tenderness are the main symptoms.  Pain increases when using the affected muscle.  Swelling, limited range of motion, and muscle weakness sometimes occur.

How is it diagnosed?

A thorough history and physical exam are used in diagnosis.  Range of motion and strength will be assessed with specific movements.  Focal points of tenderness will help identify affected muscles and tendons.  X-rays will be taken to assess bony structures, and an MRI will evaluate soft tissue for damage.

We are here to help. If you believe you are suffering from one of these conditions, we would love to deliver a diagnosis, get you treated and get you moving again.