Table of Contents
- Symptoms
- Aetiology
- Clinical Findings
- Investigations
- Treatment
- Referrals
- Exercise Prescription
- Evaluation of Treatment Outcomes
- Differential Diagnoses
- Prognosis
Symptoms
Gradual onset of diffuse or localised exercise-induced groin pain and occasionally lower back pain. A runner often complains that he cannot produce enough force in the stride forwards and a footballer cannot strike a ball properly. This condition can also present as low back pain.
Aetiology
This is secondary pain in the groin caused by a tight or cramping iliopsoas muscle, which blocks normal movements of the hip joint. The pain can be severe and radiate to the posterior thigh or medial femur. This condition typically occurs as a result of sudden changes in training habits, such as an increase in intensity or amount of impact in preseason training, or as secondary to low back injuries.
Clinical Findings
There is tenderness on palpation over many structures around the groin area. Flexibility around the hip joint is decreased in all directions, in particular in extension. Iliopsoas flexibility is decreased and stretching of the iliopsoas may relieve or decrease the symptoms dramatically.
Investigations
X-ray, MRI and other investigations are normal.
Treatment
This problem responds to conservative treatment including modification of training and stretching exercises. Occasionally the player walks into the clinic in agony and leaves free of pain. However, if the symptoms are chronic the core stability has been affected and a long re-training period will be required. Furthermore, any underlying disc prolapse or instability must be addressed.
Referrals
Refer to Dr Kevin Yip (+65 3135 1327) senior consultant orthopaedic surgeon and physiotherapist for functional rehabilitation.
Exercise Prescription
Stretching and strengthening exercises and core stability training are required. Otherwise full training can be resumed as soon as the symptoms subside.
Evaluation of Treatment Outcomes
Normal clinical symptoms and signs. Similar flexibility in hip joint movement should be achieved on both legs.
Differential Diagnoses
It is important to be aware that different conditions can cause these symptoms.
Prognosis
Excellent.
Appointment
If you would like an appointment / review with our iliopsoas groin pain specialist in Singapore, the best way is to call +65 3135 1327 or click here to book an appointment at the clinic. If you would like to speak to one of our clinicians first about e.g. iliopsoas palpation, groin tenderness, psoas muscle groin pain, then please contact contact@orthopaedicclinic.com.sg or SMS/WhatsApp to +65 3135 1327.
Rest assured that the best possible care will be provided for you.
