Most patients have hip pain due to not only deficits in active range of motion, but muscular dysfunctions as well. Understanding the impact of a tight muscle on the mechanics of the hip is crucial to a patient's success. Most patients do not have proper stretching or mobility routines, and coupled with more sedentary lifestyles can lead to pain and discomfort.
Understanding the role that hip musculature plays while walking and with functional mobility such as sitting to standing, squatting, and stepping up and down helps the patient understand what muscles should be working to keep the body upright. It is our job as physical therapists to give our patients the tools they need to not only self-manage, but succeed in their rehabilitation process; therefore, teaching our patients proper stretching, mobility, and strengthening routines helps return our patients back to a prior level of function if not stronger.