About Sartorius Pain

The sartorius is the longest muscle in the body and is attached to the lower part of the outer hip. It crosses down across the inner thigh and connects to the inside of the knee. Pain in the sartorius can be caused from jumping, running or even a hard blow. Gymnasts and dancers are particularly prone to this type of injury. People usually treat sartorius pain with a combination of rest and medication. Stretching and rehabilitation exercises can also help treat sartorius pain.

Identification

• A strain in the sartorius muscle is best identified by pain in the inner thigh or groin area. It often hurts to bring the legs together. Sometimes, lifting the knee up can hurt. Those with this type of pain can also experience a tenderness or weakness in their inner thigh area. A doctor can make a more accurate diagnosis of any such pain.

Effects of Rest, Ice & Heat

• People with sartorius pain usually need an extended period of rest to prevent further aggravation of the muscles. After the onset of sartorius pain, ice can be applied at 20-minute intervals for the first 48 hours. Ice creates vasoconstriction which can alleviate inflammation and pain by limiting blood and lymph fluids from flowing to the area. Ice packs can be used to compress the coldness directly against the affected area. Elevating the injured area above the heart can also reduce swelling. Once the swelling has gone down, heat can be applied to promote blood (with its healing properties) flow to the sartorius muscle.

Types of Medications

• Anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen and naproxen can help assuage inflammation and pain. These medications are Cox-2 inhibitors which prevent Cox-2 enzymes from stimulating prostaglandins (chemicals). Prostagladins are what cause inflammation and pain. Their production are a natural response of the body to injuries. Topical ointments such as Bengay may provide some relief for sartorius pain. Steroids may be prescribed for more severe pain.

Other Types of Treatment

• When the swelling goes down, stretching exercises can help promote blood flow to the affected area. Stretching also can help loosen up a tight sartorius muscle, re-acclimate it to movement and help reduce any lingering pain. This muscle can tighten during inactivity, especially in older people. Regular stretching, even after the pain subsides, can help prevent future injuries to the sartorius muscle. Massage can also be used to promote blood flow, relax the muscle, alleviate spasms and enhance healing of any sartorius injury.

Time Frame

• There is no set time frame for sartorius pain and related injuries. Because of its length it can sometimes take months for sartorius inflammation and pain to completely subside. Those who take a more proactive approach to their treatment can usually expect a faster recovery.