Psoas tendonitis, also known as iliopsoas tendonitis, is a condition in which the tendon of the psoas major muscle becomes inflamed.

Causes:

Psoas tendinitis can be caused by several factors, including:

• Repetitive overload: Activities that involve repetitive hip flexion, such as running, jumping, or weight lifting, can place excessive stress on the psoas tendon and lead to inflammation.
• Direct trauma: Traumatic injuries, such as a fall or blow to the hip, can cause damage to the psoas tendon.
• Biomechanical changes: Alterations in the biomechanics of the hip, spine, or posture can increase the risk of developing psoas tendinitis.
• Inflammatory diseases: Some autoimmune diseases, such as arthritis, can increase the risk of inflammation of tendons, including the psoas tendon.

Diagnosis:

Diagnosis of psoas tendonitis is usually made through clinical evaluation and may include the following steps:

• Medical history: The doctor will collect information about symptoms, physical activity, and any previous injuries.
• Physical exam: During the exam, the doctor will look for tenderness in the groin region and perform movement tests to evaluate the range of motion of the hip.
• Imaging Studies: Although not always necessary, imaging studies such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or ultrasound can provide a more detailed visualization of the tendon and confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment:

Psoas tendinitis treatment is tailored to each patient's individual needs and may include:

Conservative management:

• Rest: Avoid activities that trigger pain and allow the tendon to recover.
• Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can develop a specific exercise program to strengthen surrounding muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce the load on the tendon.
• Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
• Corticosteroid injections: In cases of significant inflammation and pain, corticosteroid injections can be administered to the affected area.

Surgery:

Surgery is rare in cases of psoas tendinitis and is generally reserved for situations where other treatments have failed. It may involve repair or release of the tendon.