Hip pain in sports is very common. Runners are the most affected although anyone else in sports can suffer hip pain as well. If your leg and core workouts at the gym are especially intense, hip pain might also be triggered. According to experts, the pain might derail your sports career and fitness efforts if it is not fixed on time and in the right way.
For athletes, it is paramount to know how to go about addressing this health issue. This article shares helpful insights that will be invaluable to you. Read on to learn more.
What Is Hip Pain?
The hip area generally supports the entire body. It is the pivot between the upper body and the lower body. When athletes complain of body pain, it is usually one of these two areas that is affected.
· Gluteus medius tendons – Tendons typically tear as a result of different accidents on the pitch or during training. It is also called tendinopathy because it involves tendons. The pain from the injury is excruciating and becomes even worse with movement. However, with the right therapy and medication, quick recovery is possible.
· Trochanteric bursitis – This injury involves sacs that are filled with fluid and found on the outer side of the hip bone. Just like tendinopathy, injuries to this area are very common. The extent depends on numerous factors, but the worst cases might require surgery for correction. Health and fitness experts have confirmed that the majority of the cases are corrected using exercise therapies.
How to Fix Hip Pain
When any of the above hip injuries occur, there are a couple of things that you can do. Ultimately, this is the time to get professional help rather than make assumptions. A scan or x-ray in a hospital will show the extent of the damage. It is from this point that experts will recommend the appropriate therapies. Here are great examples.
· Squats – Simple squats have direct benefits to the hip area. Irrespective of the pain, persistent squats will go a long way in helping athletes. Be gentle when starting and avoid carrying any weight at this point. Also, do not force the body to do too many reps.
· Wall sits – In cases of a bad injury, it is advisable to start with wall sits. The body gets support through the back, which reduces the impact. Try a few wall squats in the beginning and increase the number over time.
· Walking – The last therapy is walking. Whether you are a runner or any other athlete, you will agree that walking is a great therapy for an injured hip. It helps you to get used to the pain and triggers the healing process. Again, take steady steps and increase the distance over time.
Conclusion
Fixing hip pain might require more than just the exercises discussed above. If surgery is needed, the doctor will advise you and conduct it. On all occasions, it is crucial to take pain medication to reduce pain and inflammation. Last, it is worth noting that only a professional sports injury doctor should advise you on the appropriate time to resume active sports.
