What is Hip Adductor Tendinopathy?
Hip adductor tendinopathy is a common but often overlooked cause of groin pain. It involves inflammation or degeneration of the tendons that connect the hip adductor muscles to the pelvis. At Melbourne Physio Clinic, we help individuals manage and recover from this condition through evidence-based physiotherapy treatments.
What Are the Hip Adductor Muscles?
The hip adductor muscles play a key role in stabilising the pelvis and moving the legs inward. The primary muscles include:
Pectineus: Mostly supports hip flexion and also contributes to adduction and external rotation of the hip
Adductor Brevis: Helps in leg stabilisation and supports hip flexion, adduction, and lateral rotation
Adductor Longus: A major contributor to leg adduction. Assists the other adductor muscles to flex and externally rotate the hip
When the tendons of these muscles experience repeated stress or injury, tendinopathy can develop.
Causes of Hip Adductor Tendinopathy
This condition is typically triggered by:
Overuse from Sports: Activities that involve lateral movements, such as soccer and hockey
Sudden Increases in Activity Levels: Starting high-intensity exercise without adequate preparation
Previous Groin Strains: Untreated or poorly managed injuries
Biomechanical Issues: Poor posture or movement patterns
Symptoms of Hip Adductor Tendinopathy
Common symptoms of hip adductor tendinopathy include:
Groin pain that radiates down the leg
Discomfort when moving the leg inward or lifting the knee
Increased pain during high-impact activities like running
Tightness and stiffness in the hip region
Weakness at the hip, especially when trying to move the leg towards midline
Diagnosis & Treatment of Hip Adductor Tendinopathy
At Melbourne Physio Clinic, our physiotherapists provide a comprehensive assessment to diagnose hip adductor tendinopathy. We consider:
Physical Evaluation: Identifying areas of pain and assessing range of motion
Functional Tests: Evaluating muscle strength and movement patterns
Imaging: Referrals for ultrasound or MRI when necessary
Our tailored treatment plans focus on reducing pain, improving tendon health, and restoring full function. These treatments include:
1. Physiotherapy Exercises
Targeted exercises help strengthen and lengthen the adductor muscles. These include:
Gentle stretching to reduce tension
Strengthening exercises to build resilience
Gradual progression to sport-specific movements
2. Manual Therapy
Hands-on techniques are used to relieve muscle tension and improve flexibility.
3. Load Management
We guide you on modifying activities to prevent further tendon overload.
4. Emerging Therapies
Advanced treatments such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy may be considered for stubborn cases.
5. Education and Prevention
Learning how to move correctly and maintain proper posture can significantly reduce the risk of recurrence.
The Different Stages of Tendinopathy
Understanding the phases of tendinopathy helps tailor treatment:
Reactive Tendinopathy: Early inflammation with minor damage
Tendon Dysrepair: Breakdown of tendon structure without full degeneration
Degenerative Tendinopathy: Advanced damage requiring focused rehabilitation
Tendon Tear or Rupture: In rare cases, surgery may be needed
Addressing hip adductor pain effectively involves a combination of rest, targeted exercises, and physiotherapy interventions. Recovery can take weeks to months, depending on the severity and adherence to treatment. Early management is essential to prevent the condition from worsening and help you return to daily activities or sports with minimal disruption.
Rest and Activity Modification
Reducing activities that trigger pain is crucial during the initial stages of recovery. Running is generally not recommended until the pain subsides. Instead, focus on low-impact activities that do not exacerbate symptoms. Gentle walking can be beneficial if it does not cause discomfort, as it promotes blood flow and aids recovery.
Pain Relief Strategies
Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Pain relief medications may also be considered under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Sleeping with a pillow between your legs can reduce tension on the adductor muscles and improve comfort during rest.
Physiotherapy and Exercise
Physiotherapists play a vital role in guiding patients through targeted exercises to strengthen and stretch the adductor muscles. These exercises are designed to restore function and flexibility while reducing the risk of recurrence. Manual therapy techniques may also be employed to release tension and improve muscle function.
Education and Posture Correction
Understanding proper movement patterns and making postural adjustments can significantly aid recovery and prevent further strain. Physiotherapists provide valuable education to help patients modify their activities and movements, ensuring a faster and more sustainable recovery.
By adopting a comprehensive approach that combines rest, targeted exercises, pain management, and professional guidance, individuals can navigate the recovery process with confidence and regain optimal hip function.