Trigger Point Therapy - Treating Pectineus
Treating Trigger Points - Hip Adductors / Pectineus
Pectineus trigger points are a common cause of groin pain, and often overlooked
The pectineus is sandwiched between the psoas major and the adductor longus.
Pain from trigger points in this muscle is typically felt deeply in the groin as a sharp pain within the femoral triangle.
As with the adductor muscle group, the pain is also sometimes felt in the joint itself.
Pectineus Trigger Points - Typically refer a sharp pain felt deeply in the groin
Origin
Pecten of pubis, between iliopubic (iliopectineal) eminence and pubic tubercle.
Insertion
Pectineal line, from lesser trochanter to linea aspera of femur.
Action
Adducts hip joint. Flexes hip joint.
Nerve
Femoral nerve, L2, 3, 4. Occasionally receives an additional branch from obturator nerve, L3.
Basic Functional Movement
Example: walking along a straight line.
Pectineus Trigger Points - Common Pain Pattern
Referred Pain Patterns
Strong 8–12 cm zone of pain in anterior groin, with more diffuse radiations in an oval, toward the anteromedial thigh.
Indications
Persistent “internal” groin pain, groin strain, hip pain, post hip-replacement rehabilitation, post hip fracture, pregnancy, postpartum, pain during sexual intercourse/ hip adduction exercises (gym), osteoarthritis of hip.
Causes
Leg splint/cast, foot/ankle problems, sudden overload due to gymnastics, football/ice skating injury, horse riding, skiing, cross-legged sitting, leg length discrepancy.
Differential Diagnosis
Inguinal hernia. Femoral hernia. Lymphadenopathy. Meralgia paresthetica. Lumbar radiculopathy. Vascular incompetence.
Connections
Adductor longus/brevis, iliopsoas.
Trigger Point Treatment Techniques
| Spray and Stretch | YES |
| Dry Needling | YES |
| Deep Stroking Massage | YES |
| Compression | YES |
| Positional Release | YES |
| Muscle Energy | YES |
General Advice for Clients
Modify activities until trigger points diminish. Avoid repetitive hip adduction/flexion, some yoga positions (such as lotus). Avoid sitting cross-legged.
Use direct finger pressure, stretching techniques, balls, and/or a pressure tool.
Regular gentle stretching may be useful.
Links
Find a Trigger Point Professional in your area
More Articles About ITB Syndrome
More Articles About Groin Pain
More Articles About Hip Injuries and Treatment
Online Hip Course - Stuart Hinds
Dry Needling for Trigger Points
Certify as a Trigger Point Therapist
Corrective Exercises - Hip and Shoulder Dysfunction
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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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