The Hip Flexor- Everyone is talking about it. The hip flexors have been an interesting topic. It’s as though it’s suddenly the explanation for many issues from low back pain to pain while exercising. What’s going on? This is a tricky question because every specialist has tunnel vision. An approach that addresses all components is important for optimal treatment. The three big components are muscle contraction, joint restriction, and inflammation. The hip flexor is actually made of a few muscles, and we will talk about the largest- the psoas muscle. Here is how we treat it:
First of all, I have seen videos of doctors doing a “psoas release” from the abdominal region. Unfortunately, this is totally impossible. You cannot, in any way, touch the psoas unless you remove 12” of tissues and organs in front of it. At this point the psoas muscles wouldn’t matter because you wouldn’t be alive. These large muscles are on the inside of the abdominal cavity and run from the last ribs, through the pelvic cavity, and to the hips. So, they are classified as hip and back muscles. For this reason, we usually stretch the hips and perform spinal manipulation at the origin and insertion of these muscles. This will address the mobility and tightness components of these structures.
Secondly, we perform therapeutic ultrasound or shockwave therapy to the insertion of these muscles. This penetrates the tissue to treat where the hands can’t get to. Its aim is to reduce the tightness and the inflammation of the tissue.
Although injuries and overuse can trigger episodes of hip flexor injuries, it is important to investigate underlying issues. For example, one may be training for a half marathon and begin to have back and hip issues. However, some people find that (through x-ray) they have a significant short leg, which causes scoliosis and therefore asymmetry of the psoas muscles. In this case we may need to get a measurement for a $10 heel lift and talk about postural changes at home.
Interesting fact: The psoas muscles are equivalent to the tenderloin on a cow. Humans use theirs more because they stand upright….so they get more work and don’t taste as good!
If you are having back or hip problems, feel free to come see us for an assessment! We can do a thorough exam on you and take a standing lumbar x-ray if needed. We would love to help you! 316-729-2528
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