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Hip tendon/muscle/nerve injuries

What are hip muscle, tendon and nerve injuries?

Injuries to the muscles, tendons and nerves in the hip can cause similar types and levels of pain, so it is important to undergo an examination with an orthopaedic specialist to establish a definitive diagnosis and identify the most appropriate type of treatment.

Among the common types of muscle, tendon and nerve injuries are:

  • Snapping hip – this is used to describe a number of different hip problems caused by tight or over-used tendons, which snap or roll over the bone rather than gliding smoothly. The result is pain and inflammation of the hip bursa
  • Gluteus medius syndrome – the gluteus medius muscle provides stability when walking, running and jumping. It is the muscle that is engaged when the hip is moved away from the body. If the muscle is weak, tight or strained, it can cause pain in the outer part of the hip
  • Piriformis syndrome – this is irritation or tightness of the piriformis muscle, which is a deep hip rotator. The syndrome can cause pain deep in the hip and buttock and also down the back of the leg, similar to sciatic nerve pain.

What causes hip muscle, tendon and nerve injuries?

Muscle, tendon and nerve injuries of the hip are normally the result of overuse, due to making repetitive movements that can damage soft tissues – for example during sports or exercise –or because of tightness in the muscle which places stress on the surrounding muscles and tendons. Injuries can also occur as a result of trauma, such as an accident, fall or collision. There is a large number of muscles, tendons, ligaments and nerves in the hip and pelvis, helping to control movement and provide stability and strength. In between the bones and tendons are bursae, which are small fluid-filled sacs that support smooth movement. These can also become painful and inflamed (see hip bursitis).

Hip muscle, tendon and nerve injuries

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