Typical Physical Therapy program for hip pain-Part 1
What to expect from Physical Therapy, with exercises included
1. Pain Management and Early Intervention Manual Therapy:
Techniques such as joint mobilization, soft tissue release, and stretching reduce stiffness and improve joint nutrition through synovial fluid movement. Modalities: Heat therapy (for stiffness) or ice (for inflammation) to manage symptoms. Ultrasound or electrical stimulation may also provide relief.
2. Range of Motion (ROM) Restoration Exercises:
- Seated Hip Flexion Stretch:
Sit on a chair, pull one knee toward your chest, and hold for 20–30 seconds. - Prone Hip Extension:
Lie face down and lift one leg straight off the ground, engaging the glutes. - Hip Rotations (90-90 Stretch):
Sit on the floor with one leg bent in front (90°) and the other behind, leaning gently forward.
3. Strengthening the Hip Musculature
Strengthening the surrounding muscles helps stabilize the joint and reduce stress on the cartilage.
Key Exercises:
- Clamshells (Glute Medius): Lie on your side, knees bent. Lift the top knee while keeping the feet together.
- Bridges (Glute Maximus):
Lie on your back, bend knees, and lift hips off the ground. - Side-Lying Leg Raises (Abductors):
Lie on your side, lift the top leg, keeping it straight. - Step-Ups:
Step onto a platform or low step, engaging the glutes and quadriceps.