Expert: Gerald Anzalone, D.C. - 5/22/2011

Question
I have some pain above my right iliac crest in the front.  It goes into my hip and down into my right thigh a little.  It is burning and throbbing.  I went to my Family Physician who thinks it may be some pulled muscles or a problem with my hip but I've had no injuries. He has ruled out appendicitis though with a CBC and UA. What could this be and what can I do to fix it? Thanks for your time! :)

Answer
Hi Michelle,

Thanks for your question.

While I can't provide you with a diagnosis over the Internet, I can tell you that anterior hip, groin, or thigh pain usually comes from the hip joint or one of the hip flexor muscles. A careful physical examination should help the appropriately trained clinician (who should be an expert in musculoskeletal disorders) pin-point the exact cause.

Please see this link for a good article on anterior hip pain from the American Academy of Family Physicians:

http://tinyurl.com/3jq9d88

Myofascial trigger points may also be a consideration. Tensor fasciae latae trigger points produce pain in the area of the iliac crest, greater trochanter of the femur, and the hip joint itself. Pain increases with weight-bearing and active movement. Please see this link for an illustration of the trigger point referral area:

http://tinyurl.com/3bhsqyx

I would recommend seeing a musculoskeletal-based chiropractor or a massage therapist who is skilled in trigger point identification and treatment. Persistent or worsening symptoms despite treatment warrants additional investigation and possibly diagnostic imaging.

I hope that this helps to answer your question.