Our  Remedial Massage Therapist Scott, is going through a stretch for the hip flexor muscles (illiacus & psoas).

The hip flexors originate in the lumbar spine and cross over the hip joint, attaching to the inner thigh. Due to this location, it can tend to tighten up when sitting. Most of us at some point in the day find ourselves seated at the desk, driving or in front of the tv/computer. This places these hip flexor muscles into contraction, especially if we are seated for prolonged periods of time.

To stretch you will need to get into a lunge position with one knee slightly behind the body on the ground. You may want to place a cushion or towel under the knee. Lean into this stretch to feel it at the front of the hip. Stretch the other side. Keep a back straight at all times. Hold for 30 seconds. Repeat on other side.
To increase the stretch you can raise the same side arm over the head and add a bit of side bend away from the hip you are stretching.
You can try another stretch where you bring your opposite hand on the inside of the knee that is lunged forward and add rotate gently. Hold this stretch for 30 seconds.

PLEASE NOTE: As with all stretches these shouldn’t cause any pain. If you are please stop and seek the advice of your practitioner.

Call or email us if you require further information.

Categories Exercise, Remedial Massage