Ask a PT Response: "When a patient injures the hip flexor muscle, it may take awhile to recover. When I see a patient with this type of injury, I would not only work on strengthening this muscle group but the muscles around it as well. Often times, with athletes, I would also work on core strengthening as this is an important aspect which helps contribute to not only improved athletic performance but also with minimizing injury. After a hip flexor injury the muscles can also tighten or have tender spots called trigger points. I would usually have my patient work on stretching exercises and have my patient receive some soft tissue work to help my patient achieve increase flexibility/pliability and decrease tissue irritability. Since you mention, that your hip still gives out on you occasionally with playing soccer, it may be a good idea to consult with a physical therapist so that you don't cause further injury to the area or worst yet to another part of your body as a result of your hip giving out on you. Good luck to you and thanks for using CyberPT."