Trigger Point Therapy - Treating Hip Adductors
Treating Trigger Points in the Hip Adductors - Dr. Jonathan Kuttner M.D.
Latin: Adducere = to lead toward; Magnus = large; Brevis = short; Longus = long
Adductor Magnus
Trigger points in the adductor magnus muscles may typically cause pelvic pain, but can also be associated with bladder, vaginal or rectal pain.
It's worth noting that this pain can be mistaken for serious visceral or gynecological pathology. Where the pathology is not clear, trigger points should be investigated as the cause of this pain.
Adductor Brevis
Trigger points in adductor brevis muscles tend to cause pain that is felt deep in the hip joint, on the medial side of the thigh and often referring to the referring to the knee joint.
Where the pain in the knee joint is severe, it is sometimes mistaken for arthritic pain.
Adductor Longus
Trigger points in the adductor longus muscles are often associated with groin pain. Pain from these trigger points may also be referred deep in the hip joint, the inner thigh, and the knee.
These trigger points may also be the cause of stiffness in the hip joint.
Adductor Magnus (left), Adductor Brevis, Adductor Longis (right) - Common Trigger Point Sites
Stretching
Simple stretching can be very effective at providing relief to the symptoms caused by trigger points in these muscles. Regular stretching may help prevent latent trigger points becoming active.
If you are suffering from an injury or haven't exercised for a while, make sure to take advice from a suitably qualified healthcare professional before you start.
The stretch below is one that we often recommend to our clients. As always, it's important to take it slowly and ease into and out of the stretch.
Technique
• Kneel on one knee and place your other leg out to the side
• Lean forward and place your hands on the ground
• Slowly move your foot further out to the side
Note: A towel or mat can be placed under your knee for added comfort.
Primary Muscles
Adductor longus, brevis, and magnus.
Secondary Muscles
Gracilis. Pectineus.
Injury Where Stretch May Be Useful
Avulsion fracture in the pelvic area. Groin strain. Osteitis pubis. Piriformis syndrome. Tendonitis of the adductor muscles. Trochanteric bursitis.
Find a Trigger Point Professional in your area
Hip Pain and Dysfunction - Online Course
Dry Needling for Trigger Points
Certify as a Trigger Point Therapist
Recommended Trigger Point Therapy Courses:
This trigger point therapy blog is intended to be used for information purposes only and is not intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment or to substitute for a medical diagnosis and/or treatment rendered or prescribed by a physician or competent healthcare professional. This information is designed as educational material, but should not be taken as a recommendation for treatment of any particular person or patient. Always consult your physician if you think you need treatment or if you feel unwell.
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