Ask a PT

156 Posts
 
Posted - 06/03/2008 :  12:46:31  Show Profile  Reply with Quote
Our user asked: "I have sore hip flexors and slight soreness on the sides of my hips. Walking is slightly painful. What can I do to strenthen my hip flexor region. 43 years old. Ex-athlete type of person."

Ask a PT Response: "Do you know for sure that weakness of your hip flexors is an issue for you? There may be other reasons why you may be experiencing pain at the hip flexors and lateral aspects of your hips. ie. flexibility issues, mechanical/postural issues, structural issues, etc. Therefore, you could perform strengthening exercises for your hip flexors, but may not see improvement. In some cases if the hip flexors are irritated and proper strengthening progression is not performed, a patient may experience increase pain. It may be beneficial to you to consult with a PT to determine what may be the cause of your pain. Some low level hip flexor strengthening exercises which are typically issued by physical therapists can include: standing marching, straight leg raises, and seated marching. Progression can than be made with utilization of ankle weights, thera tubing or machines. I hope this helps."