Psoas Muscle Pain: What It Is and How to Treat It
When the psoas muscles get injured, you experience psoas syndrome. One of the main symptoms of this pelvic health condition is psoas muscle pain.
There are two psoas muscles in your body. They run from either side of your spine and attach to your left and right femurs. They work with other muscles to help you raise your leg up toward your torso. This motion is called hip flexion.
Recognizing Psoas Muscle Pain
Overuse and trauma are common causes of psoas syndrome in athletes, according to the StatPearls. Such injuries occur more often in athletes involved in sports that require kicking or in adolescents during a growth spurt.
The pain may limit your ability to perform normal, daily tasks. Because psoas muscle pain mimics problems with the hip, determining the source of the problem can be difficult.
Signs that your pain may be caused by psoas syndrome include the following:
- Back, pelvis, buttocks or groin pain
- Catching or slipping sensations that arise in the groin when flexing the knee 90 degrees
- Difficulty standing up straight
- Pain that increases when transitioning from a seated position to standing
- Reduced range of motion in the affected leg
- Shuffling or limping when walking
Finding Pain Relief on Your Own
Frustrating as it may be, psoas muscle pain often goes away on its own. With the right steps, you can speed up your recovery and return to activity sooner.
- Medicate. Acetaminophen, ibuprofen or other over-the-counter pain relievers can help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Rest. Stay away from any activity that causes the pain to flare up. You may also want to apply ice to the injured area while you’re off your feet.
- Stretch. Marching in place, for example, can help stretch tight psoas muscles. Contact your provider before you start exercising to improve your symptoms.
Pro Help for PSOAS Muscle Pain
If psoas pain doesn’t go away within a few days, schedule an appointment with your primary health provider or an orthopedic provider. In addition to a physical exam and discussion of your symptoms, your provider may order an ultrasound or MRI. These imaging exams help to diagnose psoas syndrome.
Based on the severity of your injury, you may benefit from one or more of the following:
- Corticosteroid injections. Your provider injects a special medication into your aching psoas muscle. The medication helps reduce inflammation and pain. ? Physical therapy. A physical therapist guides you through exercises to stretch and strengthen your psoas muscles. These improvements help protect your muscles from injuries in the future.
- Surgery. In rare cases, surgically releasing the psoas tendon may help. Your provider may recommend this if you experience chronic snapping sensations in the hip.
Are you hurting in your groin, leg or other body part? Find a provider at Union Health to lend a hand or call 812.242.3005.