Chiropractic Care for Hip Flexor Pain

Is hip flexor pain reducing your quality of life? Not sure how to treat a hip flexor injury? A chiropractor can help

Chiropractic care can be effective in treating many different types of hip pain. For example, if your hip pain is due to muscular imbalance or tightness, a chiropractor can perform adjustments and other techniques to help restore balance and improve range of motion. If your pain is due to a misalignment in your spine or pelvis, chiropractic care can also help to correct this issue.

In addition to adjustments, your chiropractor may recommend other conservative treatment options such as massage, ice or heat therapy, and stretching exercises. These treatments can help to relieve pain, improve range of motion, and prevent further injury.

Understanding the Hip Flexor Muscle 

The hip flexor muscle is a large muscle that attaches to the lower spine and pelvis. It is responsible for lifting the leg when we walk or run and stabilizing the pelvis during movement.

While the hip flexor muscle is essential for movement, it can also be a source of pain. The hip flexor is a common site of injury, especially in athletes. Pain in the front of the groin is the most common symptom of a hip flexor injury. Other symptoms may include weakness in the leg, muscle cramping, and swelling.

Causes of Hip Flexor Strain 

One of the most common causes of hip flexor strain is overuse, which can happen when you participate in activities requiring repetitive motions, like running or cycling. Other causes include sudden movements, like pivoting or changing directions quickly, which can cause the muscles and tendons to stretch beyond their capacity. Hip flexor strain can sometimes be caused by an injury, such as a fall or a direct blow to the area.

Risk factors for developing hip flexor strain include being overweight, having tight muscles in the hips or pelvis, and participating in activities that require frequent bending at the waist. Wearing high heels can also contribute to the development of hip flexor issues.

Symptoms of Hip Flexor Strain 

• Sudden, sharp pain in the hip or thigh
• Pain that worsens with activity or when moving the affected leg
• Stiffness and decreased range of motion in the hip
• Muscle spasms or weakness in the affected leg
• Tenderness when touching the affected area
• Swelling or bruising in the affected area

How Chiropractors Treat Hip Flexor Pain 

Chiropractors specialize in diagnosing and treating neuromuscular disorders, emphasizing manual adjustment and manipulation of the spine.

Chiropractic treatment for hip flexor pain varies based on the severity and cause. It typically involves a combination of manual therapy, like spinal manipulation, massage, or trigger point therapy, and rehabilitative exercises, including stretching, strengthening, and range of motion exercises.

Chiropractic care is generally considered to be safe and effective for the treatment of hip flexor pain. However, as with any form of treatment, there are potential risks and side effects associated with chiropractic care.

Chiropractors use a variety of treatment approaches to help relieve hip pain, depending on the individual’s needs. Some common treatment approaches used by chiropractors for hip pain include:

Manipulation

This gentle, hands-on technique helps restore normal joint function and improves range of motion.

Exercise

Chiropractors may prescribe specific exercises to help strengthen the muscles and support the joints.

Activity modification

Chiropractors may recommend activity level or posture changes to help reduce the hips' stress.

Ice/heat therapy

Chiropractors use ice or heat to help reduce inflammation and pain.

Ultrasound

This therapy uses sound waves to help reduce pain and inflammation.

Electrical stimulation

This therapy uses electrical impulses to help reduce pain.

The Importance of Properly Treating Hip Flexor Strains 

Proper treatment of a hip flexor strain is essential because if the injury is not treated correctly, it can lead to further problems such as chronic pain, weakness, and decreased range of motion. Treatment typically includes rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). They may also prescribe physical therapy to help stretch and strengthen the muscles. Surgery is rarely necessary.

Conclusion 

As with any type of pain, it's essential to consult your doctor to rule out any serious underlying causes. However, if you're experiencing hip pain that is not the result of a severe injury or condition, seeing a chiropractor may be able to help.

If you have severe pain, consulting with a chiropractor is an excellent first step in finding relief. They offer various natural, non-pharmacological pain treatment options with relatively few side effects that are effective for easing hip pain.

Dr. Eric Neumann D.C.

Dr. Eric Neumann grew up in Alberta, Canada where he majored in Chemistry at the University of Calgary. During his time at University, he obtained licensure as a Massage Therapist. It was clear that hands-on healing would be his calling. After suffering multiple sport-related injuries he became interested in Chiropractic. Dr. Neumann graduated from Western States Chiropractic College in 2009. He has since specialized in the treatment and management of acute spinal injuries.