Groin Pain
Determining the origin of hip and groin pain can be a very complex matter, however this can often be traced back to weak core and pelvic stabilisers. Here are 6 daily exercises to avoid hip and groin pain:
CLAM: Side lying, lift top knee against Thera-Band resistance.
BALL BRIDGE: Place feet on pilates ball, pinch bum and lift pelvis. Do 15 x 3 repetitions.
PLANKS: Front and side planks, progress to lifting one arm or leg. Hold 30-60 seconds.
ROTATIONAL LUNGES: Lunge with a ball and rotate upper body over front leg. Take care not to let the knee fall inwards.
SINGLE LEG REACH DOWNS: Reach down by pushing the buttock backwards, keeping the knee in line with the foot. Repeat 15 times.
Conditions not to be missed:
- Hernias: Repetitive strain can cause a tear in the abdominal wall and can cause internal organs to protrude. Pain is experienced on coughing or sneezing.
- Osteoarthritisof the hip joint: Degeneration of cartilage can cause stiffness and damage which will restrict normal movement.
- Labral tears: The labrum is a cartilaginous ring lining the acetabulum. It guides the gliding motionof the femoral head. Labral tears are diagnosed with an MRI.
- Piriformis syndrome: The piriformis is a rotational muscle of the hip joint and can impinge the sciatic nerve, causing a numb feeling in the leg.
- Osteitis pubis: Inflammation of the pubic bone occurs due to chronic stress from biomechanical faults such as leg length differences.
These conditions must be excluded to make a proper diagnosis.
Article by Lené van Heerden (Physiotherapist)
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