Pain at top of glutes / hip while kicking

[LindZ]

Hi all,

I train in martial arts and have done for many years. However I took a break of about 2 years and have been back to training properly for about 4 months now.

I am having issues with the top of my glutes / hip region while kicking. The pain occurs on the outside of the hip joint at the top of the glute (to the side of the body as opposed to the back) and is a sharp pinching pain which severely limits my range of motion it almost feels like a very sharp, short, isolated cramp.

I am able to kick straight forward with no issues and to a good height. However the problem is when I am throwing round house kicks which require me to rotate through the hip. If I try and kick high with a round house kick the pain stops me in my tracks.

I have been trying stretches isolating the glutes for the past few weeks as I thought that might be the source of the issue however this does not seem to have eased the problem and I was wondering if anyone has any ideas as to what the issue could be here.

I do always try and get in plenty of time for stretching before training sessions but no amount of stretching seems to deal with the issue.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Yours sincerely,
A frustrated ninja

[Heidi]

Hi,

The only thing I can think of is that it might be a SIJ problem. This is the sacroiliac joint, which connects the spine to the pelvis.

Now, I know you're probably thinking, but the pain isn't in my back. This problem can cause pain to radiate anywhere throughout the hip, groin, lower back and thigh.

You can find a bit more info here:

http://www.sportsinjuryclinic.net/cybertherapist/back/buttocks/sacroiliac.htm

The problem can either be stiffness in the joint - meaning is doesn't move enough or gets stuck, or its too mobile.

My advice would be to visit a chiropractor who will be able to assess the problem thoroughly to see if this is the cause.

Good luck!

[LindZ]

Hi Heidi,

Sorry been away on holiday but just wanted to say thanks for the advice. Much appreciated.

I'll track down a chiropractor and see what they have to say.

Cheers,
Lindz