Overuse injuries of the hip and pelvis.

The runner who presents with pain in the hip and pelvis, all too often is approached from a one-joint or soft tissue injury concept. Since most injuries to this region are related to overuse and, in particular, overload injury, a biomechanical approach to identify significant muscle imbalances and joint dysfunctions must be sought. In addition, their relationship as predisposing factors to soft tissue injury will be emphasized in this article. A thorough understanding of the relationship between the lumbar spine, pelvis, hip and thigh, and, in particular, dysfunctions and imbalances in the lumbo-pelvic movements, are the most essential. Evaluation and treatment focusing on this concept will more likely lead to a successful long-term result and prevention of re-injury in a runner who is at high risk for recurrence.