Hip injuries are prevalent among soccer players. The hip joint is a complex region that
bears exceptionally high loads during all areas of the sport, like kicking, running, and rapidly
changing directions. Here are some of the reasons why soccer players may be experiencing hip
or groin pain.

Muscle Strain
A muscle strain typically occurs when the muscle is stretched beyond its normal range of
motion, which can cause it to tear partially or entirely. This may happen when
soccer players stretch their legs out to kick or slide to tackle the ball away from an opponent.
Usually, muscle strains are located in “the kicking leg” of the player, and the adductor muscles are
the most common areas. A “strain” on these muscles would cause pain in the groin area.

With adductor strains, most cases can be managed conservatively with rest from soccer, ice,
and physical therapy. Physical therapy rehabilitation will include stretching and strengthening
the lower extremity and core and gradually returning to sport.

           Image from Rothman Orthopedic

Snapping Hip Syndrome

Snapping hip syndrome is characterized by an audible snap or click with
hip flexion or extension and pain during physical activities. In general, females are more often
affected by this condition. There are three types of snapping hip syndrome.

External (lateral) is the most common. External snapping is caused by a snapping of the iliotibial
band, tensor fascia latae, or the gluteus maximus muscle snapping over the greater trochanter
during hip flexion.

The displacement of the iliopsoas tendon causes internal (medial) over the pubic bone or
femoral head.

A hip joint derangement commonly causes the intra-articular type. Some examples
include labral tear or fracture fragments which cause a build-up of fluid within the joint that
produces an internal snapping.

All three types of snapping hip syndrome may benefit from skilled physical therapy to stretch
and strengthen the muscles of the lower extremity to improve the stability of the hip joint

Though these are only a few of the reasons why soccer players may be experiencing hip or
groin pain, there are many other injuries or ailments athletes may endure throughout their
career. If you or a family member finds themselves in need of physical therapy to address their
aches and pains, any therapist here at WWSPT will be happy to help.

Karli Lynch, PT, DPT
WWS Physical Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation
Doylestown, PA