Rectus femoris tendinopathy
Rectus femoris tendinitis / inflammation of the tendon of the rectus femoris (hip flexor) muscle

Rectus femoris tendinopathy affects the tendon of an important thigh muscle. This causes pain along the front of the hip and thigh.

leg quadriceps muscle rectus femoris vastus lateralis medialis

The rectus femoris is one of the four muscles that form the quadriceps muscle group. The rectus femoris runs from the hip to the knee. Its main functions are extending the knee and flexing the hip.

Description of the condition

The tendon along the upper portion of the rectus femoris is inflamed. This produces pain along the front of the hip. In more severe cases the tendon can tear partially or completely. An affected tendon causes pain when the muscle contracts or is stretched.

Cause and origin

The most important cause is overloading. This can develope gradually or acutely as a result of a rapid, brief physical effort.

Signs & symptoms

  • Pain along the front of the hip and/or thigh.
  • Pressing on the painful area makes the symptoms worse.
  • Pain when elevating and/or extending the knee against resistance.
  • Pain when stretching the quadriceps muscle.
  • The front of the hip can feel stiff.
  • The symptoms can occur during various activities that involve this muscle. Examples include running or playing football.

Diagnosis

Treatment

Exercises


You can check your symptoms using the online physiotherapy check or make an appointment with a physiotherapy practice in your area.

References

leg quadriceps muscle rectus femoris vastus lateralis medialis

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