Hip Strain

What is a hip strain?

A hip strain occurs when the muscles that support the hip joint are stretched too much, resulting in the muscles and tendons becoming inflamed, sore and painful.

Athletes who jump, run or perform high knee kicks have a higher risk of developing hip strain. Deep stretching could also result in a hip strain.

What does it feel like?

The most noticeable symptom of hip strain is pain central to the front of the hip. However, there are several other symptoms that occur with this condition. They include:

• Pain that comes on suddenly
• Increasing pain when you lift your thigh toward your chest
• Pain when stretching your hip muscles
• Muscle spasms at your hip or thigh
• Tenderness to the touch at the front of your hip
• Swelling or bruising at your hip or thigh area
• Pain when running or walking

How do you treat hip strain?

In most cases, the best way to treat a hip strain is with rest, cold compresses, pain medication and gentle stretching exercises recommended by a doctor. However, a patient may need to see a physical therapist in severe cases. Surgery may only be needed if the ruptured muscle needs to be repaired.