Hip flexor strain is a common injury that affects many athletes, fitness enthusiasts and even regular people who engage in physical activities. The hip flexors are a group of muscles that include the iliacus, psoas major, and rectus femoris which starts in the hip and runs down to the thigh. A hip flexor strain occurs when any of these muscles become overstretched or torn due to sudden movements in sports or activities, which may lead to pain and discomfort. It is important to understand the stages of hip flexor strain to effectively manage the injury and prevent it from getting worse.
Stage 1 – Acute Stage:
The acute stage of hip flexor strain typically occurs within the first 72 hours after the initial injury. At this stage, the pain may be severe, and there may be inflammation, swelling, and limited range of motion. Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (R.I.C.E) are the recommended treatment options for this stage. Physical activity that can further strain the hip flexors should be avoided during this stage. It is important to seek medical attention if the pain is severe or there is a significant decrease in mobility.
Stage 2 – Sub-Acute Stage:
The sub-acute stage occurs between 2 to 21 days after the initial injury. During this stage, the pain may be less severe compared to the acute stage, but there still may be a limited range of motion, especially when lifting your legs or stairs climbing. A combination of physiotherapy, stretching, and exercise can be prescribed for the sub-acute stage. Physiotherapists tailor exercises and stretches specifically for the Hip flexors and the patient’s level of mobility. Graduated strengthening exercises will also help to restore strength and flexibility.
Stage 3 – Chronic Stage:
The chronic stage of hip flexor strain occurs after 3 weeks of sustained injury. At this stage, the pain may be sporadic and intermittent. Limitations in range of motion can be reduced. Comprehensive physio can be prescribed to address specific functional needs that may have developed due to the injury. It is important to take the necessary precautions and rest while trying to participate in more intense activities because hip flexor strains tend to be recurrent.
Understanding the stages of hip flexor strain is crucial when managing this injury. A physiotherapist or chiropractor can provide the most suitable treatment plan depending on the injury’s severity and stage. Accurate diagnosis coupled with treatments like RICE, physiotherapy, stretches, and exercises will help to reduce pain and prevent further injury. In the sub-acute stage, graduated strengthening exercises will help you recover and give you back proper functionality. Incremental progression to your activities of daily living is recommended in the chronic stage of recovery. Patience and adherence are important for a successful hip flexor strain treatment. You should also consider preventative stretches and exercises for hip flexor strain injury after healing to prevent recurrence.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Nitin Nair, BPT, R/TRO DIP, PT, or another Kitchener physiotherapist at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
