I’m a martial artist who specializes in Taekwondo, and I’m having problems with my hip joint. The joints that separates my legs and hip pop and ache after some kicks. I believe they are weak because others do not have this problem like I do. Is there any Yoga stretches I can do to help this problem? I wish I could explain it better, but I really need stretches that will help me with this problem.
If you are looking to create more flexibility and range of motion in your hip, it’s best to understand how to stretch the major muscles that cross the hip joint. Once you learn to isolate each one, and test how tight or loose they are, then you can start to work with the ones that need more attention.
Check out the link below. You can find the poses you are looking for by clicking on the box under ‘Lower Body’. You will see a list of muscles - from Gluteus Maximus, down to Hamstring are the 8 muscles that cross the hip joint. Select one and try one or two of the videos to see how to stretch that muscle. Then move onto the next. See if your body will tell you which need stretching the most and create a regular stretching routine to stretch out the areas that are the tightest.
also try this:
take 10-15 min warm bath, thoroughly dry affected area and apply snogg patch for 2-3 days. repeat if necessary. i teach yoga for 8 years, and always recommend this for strain muscles and pain in joints. usually works fast and heals effectively.
important: as long as you wear this patch - do not stretch or use injured area in workouts.
stay well
[QUOTE=SnakeKwonKick;58952]I’m a martial artist who specializes in Taekwondo, and I’m having problems with my hip joint. The joints that separates my legs and hip pop and ache after some kicks. I believe they are weak because others do not have this problem like I do. Is there any Yoga stretches I can do to help this problem? I wish I could explain it better, but I really need stretches that will help me with this problem.[/QUOTE]
Dear Snake,
I did lot of martial arts too. It is fun, but creates lot of injuries…
Why are you so convinced that stretch would help you? If I were you I would go to the doctor and find out what is happening in that hip. Joints are very gentle structure and if there is a wear or cartilage, when I would advise very gentle stretch of your hip. You do want it to hurt more? dont’ you?
Others don’t the same problem as you do just because they have completely different bodies than you do:) not because your are not doing enough stretch. I can give you stretch program, since i’ve been teaching yoga for jiu-jitsu, but I’d like you to make sure that is there in you hip joint!
Train smart
Love,
CM
yep, train smart
CityMonk is right in suggesting you see a doctor to get a definite diagnosis. However, i know that isn’t always an option depending on insurance and monies.
I can’t diagnose your condition but considering the repetitive exercises you put your hip through and the symptoms you state it seems like it could be “snapping hip syndrome”
This is caused by tendonitis, if you aren’t using correct biomechanics or just overusing your body, tendons will become inflamed and thicken. then the tendon will catch on different parts of bone depending upon which tendon is becoming inflamed. (outside of hip IT band over greater trochanter, interior hip Iliopsoas on the AIIS)
Stretching the muscles that cross the hip can definitely help if this is the condition you suffer from. The most important thing is to use correct biomechanics though. I would suggest forgetting about trying to kick with lots of power for awhile and focus on correct form. (maybe even ask your master for some one-on-one time to refine your technique)
In addition to stretching your muscles spend some time stretching the ligaments and fascia that cross the hip joint. These are very thick in that area and may take some time to get to where you want them. Hold the asana for an extended amount of time (3-5 min) and try not to move at all and let the stretch get into your connective tissue.
Eka Pada Kapotasana (lay forward over your front leg) is great for opening the hip and stretching glutes, High Runners lunge or Anjaneyasana (crescent lunge) are great for stretching hip flexors, then any of the multitude of forward bends for hamstrings, and many different quad stretches Virasana is a great one (Eka Pada Rajakapotasana, the king pigeon variation is my favorite)
Look around your area for a Yin Yoga class. I can’t personally attest to Yin Yoga’s benefits but I know some martial artists that swear by it. No matter how proficient you are any practice can be benefitted by a good teacher.