Hip dysplasia can be defined as a condition that affects the hip joint. According to Werner (2020), this pathology “involves abnormalities in the shape of the acetabulum or femoral head that prevents a fully functioning hip joint” (p. 253). Research indicates that massage can help reduce pain by relaxing muscles and increasing the range of motion. As per Werner (2020), massaging affected areas in an acute state may worsen the problem; massaging “subacute dislocations or subluxations may be appropriate and helpful if the compromised range of motion is respected” (p. 253). In the given scenario, self-care strategies for the patient can include stretching exercises, swimming, ensuring enough sleep and a healthy diet, and managing stress.
To develop an effective massage plan, it is necessary to consider the muscles involved. Abductors, adductors, the iliopsoas muscle, and lateral rotator muscles are involved in moving the coxal joint (Werner, 2020). In particular, such gluteal muscles as gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, and gluteus minimus help control the hip (Werner, 2020). Based on the action and location, abductor muscles and the iliopsoas muscle might be involved in the client’s pain. Furthermore, the trigger points chart indicates that the following muscles may be part of the pain pattern:
- Hips – gluteus medius;
- Low back – quadratus lumborum;
- The small of the back – the iliopsoas muscle.
The palpation finding that surprised me was that the right side of the quadratus lumborum was less affected than the left one. However, the fact that the right side of gluteus medius was more impacted made sense since the patient had hip dysplasia on the right side.
The treatment protocol would include nurturing touches to build trust with the patient, followed by gliding strokes and kneading strokes over the gluteus medius and quadratus lumborum, as well as stretching of both muscle groups. The client’s homework and self-care techniques will include stretching of the gluteal and hip muscles, as well as relaxing activities and swimming.
Reference
Werner, R. (2020). The balanced body: A guide to deep tissue and neuromuscular therapy (4th ed.). Jones & Bartlett Learning.