Case Study: Muscle Sprain at the Hip – (Sports Injury)

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Managed in Clinical Physiotherapy Setup | Short-Term Rehabilitation | 2010–2012

This case involved a 12-year-old girl who came to the clinic with her mother complaining of pain in the hip region, following excessive running during her school’s sports day events. The injury appeared to be a muscle sprain, likely due to overuse and inadequate warm-up before intense activity. This was a short-duration case, and with timely intervention, she made a full recovery within a few sessions.

Presentation and Complaints:

• Sharp pain in the hip region, especially during walking or any weight-bearing activity

• Mild swelling and tenderness over the lateral hip

• No visible bruising or signs of serious trauma

• Reduced range of motion, particularly in hip abduction and extension

• Pain aggravated during running, climbing stairs, or getting up from sitting position

• Slight limp due to pain avoidance

Assessment (As per Clinical Practice at the Time):

• Visual and palpation-based examination to assess tenderness and localized swelling

• Active and Passive ROM testing of the hip joint

• Manual Muscle Testing (MMT) to check for pain during resisted hip abduction and extension

• Gait observation, revealing slight limping pattern due to pain

• No neurological deficits or red flags observed

• Pain scale (Verbal Numeric Rating): 6/10 at rest, 8/10 with activity

Physiotherapy Management:

As it was a grade I to mild grade II muscle sprain, the rehabilitation was focused on pain relief, controlled mobilization, and restoring function for a safe return to sport.

1. Acute Phase Management (Initial 2–3 Days):

  • Rest and activity modification to avoid further strain on the hip
  • Ice therapy applied locally to reduce inflammation and pain
  • Electrotherapy modalities used (as per practice during 2010–2012):

- Interferential Therapy (IFT) to manage pain and improve circulation

- Ultrasound Therapy (US) applied over the affected muscle group to reduce inflammation and promote tissue healing

2. Manual Therapy Techniques:

  • Gentle soft tissue mobilization and myofascial release over the gluteal and lateral thigh region
  • Passive hip joint mobilization (grade I and II) to relieve joint stiffness and reduce guarding

3. Stretching and Mobility Restoration:

  • Gradual static stretching of hip flexors, abductors, and hamstrings as pain reduced
  • Focused on pain-free range only in early sessions, progressing to full ROM

4. Strengthening Exercises (Once Pain Subsided):

  • Isometric exercises for hip muscles, particularly abductors and extensors
  • Progressed to dynamic strengthening, including side-lying leg raises and bridging
  • Functional strengthening with mini squats and step-ups toward the end phase

5. Functional Training and Return to Sports:

  • Light jogging and sport-specific drills were introduced once full range and strength returned
  • Education on proper warm-up and cool-down routines to prevent re-injury
  • Advised on hydration, muscle care, and recovery habits for young athletes

Outcome:

Within a short period (approximately 1 to 2 weeks), the patient made a complete recovery:

• Full pain-free hip mobility restored

• Normal gait pattern resumed

• Strength and endurance of the hip muscles returned to baseline

• She returned to school and participated in physical activity without recurrence

• The parents were very satisfied with the recovery, and the girl regained confidence in movement

 This case was a reminder of how timely physiotherapy intervention, combined with basic electrotherapy and structured exercise, can lead to quick and complete recovery, especially in young, active individuals. It also emphasized the importance of education and prevention in sports-related injuries among children.


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