10 Symptoms of Hip Flexor Pain

Walking up the stairs or simply rising up off of the sofa may be actions you take for granted. For those who suffer from hip flexor strain and pain, these actions can become extremely painful, sometimes even impossible. Lifting the knee towards your chest or body and bending at the waist all require muscles known as hip flexors. They include muscles called iliacus and psoas major, as well as the rectus femoris, which is actually part of your quadriceps. These muscles are attached to tendons, which in turn, connect them to your bones, so when you cause strain to these areas, then the damage performed can cause a great deal of pain.If the hip flexor area continues to be damaged with overextended use or injury, then the lasting damage could become dire. How does this strain occur? Typically, when you overuse these muscles, just like with any muscle that you overwork, it becomes sore and stiff. Since these muscles are typically used for more than just exercise, for everyday movement for example, then the likelihood of their being strained is high. However, there is an increase in risk for those who are cyclists, dancers, athletes, martial artists, and those who perform step aerobics at a considerable amount. All of these activities require extended use of the hip flexor muscles and thus can lead to strain. To ensure you don't permanently injure yourself, understand the following symptoms to determine if you're suffering from hip flexor pain.

1. Sudden Sharp Pain In The Pelvis Or Hip Area

If you suddenly find, typically when you stand up or attempt to walk, a sharp pain that shoots through your pelvis or hip area, you may be faced with a strain. Depending on the severity of the sudden and sharp pain, you may be facing either a mild tear, which is the most common, or a severe one. If it is the latter, the pain will likely be excruciating, and you may not even be able to move. The pain, in question, also is sudden. You may not realize you're in pain at all until you suddenly attempt to utilize those muscles.The body uses pain to tell you that something is wrong. In terms of pain associated with the flexor area and flexor strain, then it's attempting to tell you that either the muscle itself or tendons have been overworked. Resting may aid in this discomfort, but if it becomes too severe, then you should contact your doctor. The degree of severity of the injury may require a few additional steps to be taken. They can also help relieve the pain that you're experiencing in your pelvis or hip area. The symptom of discomfort isn't felt in these locations alone, however.Next