Adductor tendinopathy is a common injury among athletes and active individuals. It is a type of tendinitis that affects the adductor muscles located in the groin area. This condition can cause discomfort and limit mobility affecting your sports performance and daily routine. In this blog post, we will discuss what triggers adductor tendinopathy and how you can prevent it. As a physiotherapist in Kitchener, I have worked with several patients who suffered from this condition, and I have gained insights that I would like to share with you.
Overuse: One of the primary causes of adductor tendinopathy is overuse. Athletes who engage in high-intensity activities that involve running, jumping, or sudden stops and starts, such as soccer, basketball, football, and tennis, are at a higher risk of developing this injury. Overusing the adductor muscles can lead to small tears in the tendons, causing inflammation and pain.
Muscle imbalances: Muscle imbalances can also contribute to the development of adductor tendinopathy. When certain muscles, such as the quadriceps or glutes, are weaker than others, the adductor muscles have to compensate, which puts extra strain on them. This can result in tendinitis over time. Therefore, it is essential to maintain proper muscle balance through regular strength and conditioning exercises, since inactivity can worsen adductor tendinopathy.
Poor biomechanics: Poor biomechanics can also trigger adductor tendinopathy. When you have incorrect form or posture during exercises or movements, it puts undue stress on certain muscles, leading to imbalances and injuries. For instance, if you have a flat foot or overpronation, it can affect your gait and put extra pressure on your adductor muscles. Thus, wearing proper shoes and working with a coach or physiotherapist to correct your form can help prevent and naturally heal adductor tendinopathy.
Aging: As we age, our muscles and tendons lose their elasticity and become weaker, making them more prone to injuries. Adductor tendinopathy can also develop as a result of wear and tear over time. Therefore, it is important to engage in appropriate exercises and stretching routines to maintain flexibility and strength.
Previous injuries: If you have suffered from adductor strains or other groin injuries in the past, you are at a higher risk of developing adductor tendinopathy. This is because the scar tissue that forms during the healing process can weaken the tendons and make them more susceptible to further injury. Therefore, it is crucial to rehab and recover properly from any previous injuries to prevent them from recurring.
Adductor tendinopathy is a common condition that can affect anyone who engages in high-intensity activities. By understanding the triggers of this injury, you can take steps to prevent it. Engage in proper strength and conditioning exercises to maintain muscle balance, wear appropriate footwear, and work on your biomechanics. Additionally, as you age, make sure to include exercises that maintain flexibility and strength. And, most importantly, if you have suffered from a previous injury, make sure to rehab and recover properly to prevent further damage to the tendons. As a physiotherapist, I can help you develop a personalized plan to prevent adductor tendinopathy and alleviate your pain if you already suffer from it. Contact me for more information.
Want the bigger picture? See our Complete Adductor Tendinopathy Guide for a full breakdown.
