How can you tell if your child’s hip injury is a pulled muscle vs an impingement?

Hip ailments tend to be common among athletes, because of the number of falls and collisions that can occur during play, and kids are not exempt. Therefore parents have to be attentive to their kids that play sports, and pain in the groin  should be checked quickly, as it may indicate a pulled muscle. How can you tell if your child’s hip injury is a pulled muscle vs an impingement?

Pulled hip muscle

A pulled hip muscle or hip strain is caused by the excessive stretching of the muscles supporting the hip joint.  The condition can result in joint pain and impaired movement. A hip strain is not to be confused with hip impingement.

Hip impingement

The hip is a ball and socket joint, and it structured to allow for free movement. However, some people have a hip joint with an abnormality, in some cases the hip socket angles backward, or has a bulging bone. This can cause the hip labrum to tear, resulting in severe pain and discomfort. If it is not treated it can lead to osteoarthritis of the hip.

Pulled Muscle Vs Hip Impingement

It typically takes a physical examination along with tests,to accurately diagnose if a hip injury is the result of a pulled muscle vs an impingement. Tests may include an X-Ray, MRI, or CT scan.

Treatment for a hip injury depends on the severity and may include, heat therapy, physiotherapy, pain management, or arthroscopic surgery (click here for learn more).

If you would like more information on how to tell if your child’s hip injury is a pulled muscle vs an impingement, contact Dr. Frank McCormick, of the LESS Institute. The LESS Institute has convenient locations in Florida including Miami, Boca Raton, Doral, and Orlando. Call (866)956-3837 for an appointment, or go to www.frankmccormickmd.com/contact-us/.

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