Greater Manchester

Merseyside

Sport Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy for Groin and Hip Pain

Due to the huge twisting, turning, sideways and impact forces put through the hip, groin and upper leg there are numerous potential injuries. The most common injuries in this area that we see clinically include; Hamstring strains, Groin Strains, Osteoarthritis, Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome ( previously known as Trochanteric Bursitis), Gluteal bursitis, Iliotibial band syndrome and hip impingement.

For more details about some of the more common hip, groin and upper leg conditions please click on the name of the condition below.

Anatomy of the Hip Joint

The hip is the most stable joint in the body but is also highly mobile. The deep ball and socket give significant stability and the joint is then further stabilised by extremely strong ligaments, cartilage, muscles and the joint capsule.

There are some of the body’s most powerful muscles and tendons acting on the hip, groin and upper leg to provide the explosive movements and range of motion needed to walk, run and play sports.  There are also numerous lubricating pouches called bursae which provide protection to the other soft tissues and further aid mobility.

The hip joint is formed by the end of the long bone of the thigh called the femur and the socket in the pelvis called the acetabulum.  The acetabulum is also surrounded by a deep ring of cartilage called the labrum which provides further stability to the hip joint. There is also a small joint deep to the groin between the two halves of the pelvis called the Symphysis Pubis.

Is Physical Therapy effective for hip arthritis?

Physical therapy is the treatment of choice for mild to moderate hip arthritis.  For moderate to severe osteoarthritis, injection therapy followed by physical therapy is the treatment of choice.  For very severe arthritis injection therapy and physical therapy should be continued until a hip replacement is the best course of action.

When should I go to the doctor for hip pain?

You should see your GP if physical therapy is not providing sufficient relief, or if recovery time is taking too long, as it is likely you will benefit from a steroid injection. 

What does osteoarthritis of the hip feel like?

Most patients complain of a deep ache in the joint with severe pain on certain movements.

What happens if osteoarthritis is left untreated?

Left untreated your range of movement, strength and function can deteriorate more quickly making it more difficult to do activities.

How can physical therapy help a groin or upper leg injury?

An assessment will identify the cause of pain in this area to ensure treatment is tailored specifically to your presentation.  This ensures optimal rehabilitation and a quicker return to your desired activities.

Adductor strain in right thigh

How do you treat a groin strain?

As with all injuries the most important part of groin pain treatment is a graded exercise programme.  This can then be complemented with hands on techniques such as mobilisations, manipulations, soft tissue techniques and electrotherapy to help the groin muscles and other soft tissues heal.

How long does it take for a groin injury to heal?

This very much depends on the severity and type of injury.  The therapist will most likely be able to guide you following your initial consultation or occasionally they may need to assess your initial response to treatment. 

Can groin pain be a sign of hip problems?

Yes of course as the hip and groin are so closely linked, it follows that hip pain can be related to groin muscle strain or injuries.

What is the cause of upper thigh pain?

The main causes of upper thigh pain are psoas bursitis, a tear to the quadriceps muscle or referred pain from hip arthritis.

How can we help?

Our therapists have a significant amount of experience assessing, diagnosing and treating injuries in this region. We not only focus on the injured tissue, but also address the underlying issues that may have led to the injury in the first place.

Click here for details of how to book an appointment

If you are unsure which condition you have and whether treatment can help you, or you would just like to speak to somebody about your condition then please get in touch here or call 0161 745 7551 or 0151 515 2323.