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Hip rehabilitation
When pain strikes, hip rehabilitation is essential to get this vital joint back to full health. Because of its deep-socketed bony anatomy, this is a very stable joint - it has a thick joint capsule reinforced by strong spiral ligaments, and the support of several powerful muscles.
Nonetheless, injury can strike, and when it does so it is very disabling. Simple activities such as walking, climbing stairs, getting in and out of bed can become very painful. Hip rehabilitation can quickly restore full function.
In the case of extreme traumatic injuries surgery may be necessary, but most problems with this area have developed gradually, over a period of weeks, months, or even years and respond well to hip rehabilitation. Common injuries include:-
Trochanteric bursitis
- Recurrent muscle strains (hamstrings, adductors)
- Piriformis syndrome
- Chronic degenerative changes (DJD)
The good news is that most problems in this area can be resolved with an appropriate exercise program. The key components include;-
Stretching and passive motion. Improving the flexibility of tight muscles is often necessary as muscle imbalances can limit the range of motion and inhibit joint function.
- Isotonic resistance exercise. Weak or injured muscles can be strengthened using isotonic resistance exercises - this can include machines, free weights, tubing, or simply body weight.
- Proprioception and coordination. Athletes of all levels need to regain fine neurological control necessary for accurate lower limb movement.
- Plyometric exercise. These exercises, designed to develop explosive power, are needed to re-establish the quick responses essential for sports performance.
- Functional alignment. Many problems are due to an imbalance in leg alignment. Addressing this can often resolve symptoms and prevent further problems.
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