How to Cure a Pulled Hip Flexor

The hip flexor consists of three muscles that when injured can cause pain in the low back and entire leg. Injury occurs from quick explosive movements such as sprinting or kicking. It can also be caused from general weakness in the surrounding area requiring the hip to overcompensate. Curing a pulled hip flexor takes time, patience and lots of rest. Icing the affected area, taking ant-inflammatory medications and massage are some ways to cure a pulled muscle.

Things You'll Need

  • Ice pack
  • Towel
  • Over-the-counter medication
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Instructions

    • 1

      Rest the hip flexor muscles. Avoid the activity that caused the injury until healed. If the cause is unknown, then avoid exercising, heavy lifting or anything that requires a lot of walking or standing.

    • 2

      Ice the hip to reduce swelling. Wrap the ice in a towel and use for 20 minutes out of every hour. Do not apply ice directly skin, as it can cause damage.

    • 3

      Massage the hip area. Massage will increase blood flow, promoting healing. Consider a massage therapist that specializes in sports injuries.

    • 4

      Take over-the-counter medications to reduce swelling and pain. Consider ibuprofen, naproxen and acetaminophen medications, following the dosage on label. For intense pain, call your doctor for prescription medications.

    • 5

      Avoid things that increase swelling or bruising for the first one to three days following injury. Avoid hot tubs, heat pads, alcohol and aspirin. Once the swelling is down use heat pads for pain.