Injury to the sartorius muscle can occur when from overstretching or placing excessive strain on it, resulting in a muscle strain. Strains can range in severity from a partial tear of a few muscle fibers to a complete tear of the muscle. The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases notes that rehabilitation for a strain should include exercises that prevent stiffness, improve range of motion, and restore the joint's normal flexibility and strength. Consult your health care provider before beginning an exercise program.
Standing Hip Flexor Stretch
This exercise targets the muscles responsible for flexing your hip including the iliopsoas, rectus femoris and sartorius. Performing this exercise regularly will help restore range of motion in your hip as well as stretch and facilitate healing in your injured sartorius muscle. Stand facing a bench or elevated platform so that you are about 3 feet away from the bench. Transfer your weight to your affected leg and place the foot of your other leg on the platform. Take a deep breath in. As you exhale, slowly bend your elevated leg and press your hips forward until you feel a mild stretch in the front of your affected thigh. Stretch only as far as possible without causing pain. Hold the stretch for 30 seconds then carefully relax. Keep your torso straight and upright throughout the movement.
Standing Quadriceps Stretch
Exercises that target your quadriceps also work your sartorius muscle. The many variations of quadriceps stretches can be performed to improve movement and stretch your injured muscle. Stand with your healthy leg next to a counter or wall and place your hand on the object for balance. Carefully lift the heel of your affected leg. Reach back with your free hand and grasp the front of your ankle. Slowly pull your heel toward your buttocks until you feel a stretch in the front of your thigh or as far as you injury will allow. Hold the stretch for 30 seconds, then carefully lower your foot back to the floor.
Hip Flexion
Hip flexion exercises will not only improve your range of motion but will also help restore strength to your injured sartorius muscle. When first beginning your rehabilitation program, these exercises should be performed without additional resistance. Once you have regained some strength and function in your muscle, simply use resistance tubing to increase the difficulty of the exercise and further your recovery.
Sit in a chair with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. With your torso tall and your back straight, lift the knee of your injured leg up as high as you comfortably can without rolling your hips. Pause at the top of the movement then slowly lower your foot back to the floor. Complete five to 10 repetitions during each session. This exercise can also be performed while standing or lying down.
References
- "Anatomy & Physiology, Second Edition"; Elaine N. Marieb; 2005
- Sports Injury Clinic: Sartorius
- University Sports Medicine: What is a Strain?
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases: Sprains and Strains
- ExRx.net: Standing Hip Flexor Stretch
