Dr. Matthew J.

Boyle, BSc, MBChB, FRACS

AUT Millennium, 17 Antares Place, Mairangi Bay
& Ascot Hospital, 90 Green Lane E, Remuera
P: (09) 281-6733 F: (09) 479-3805
office@matthewboyle.co.nz
www.matthewboyle.co.nz

PSOAS TENDONITIS REHABILITATION PROTOCOL

_____________________________________________________________

Treatment Principles
• Psoas/hip flexor stretching
• Increase hip AROM and PROM
• Gentle strengthening
• Modalites (ice, ultrasound, TENS, massage, iontophroesis as indicated)

PHASE 1 EXERCISES

Warm up on stationary bicycle

Psoas inhibition exercise. Supine hook lying with ankle dorsiflexion with patient pushing
through the quadriceps. Contract the quadriceps without activating the hamstrings

Trunk curl exercise. Similar to psoas inhibition but adding a small curl by elevating the
scapula off the mat.
PHASE 2 EXERCISES

Electrical stimulation. Assimilate a walking patten, but with the patient prone. Cycle
electrical stimulation for 10 seconds on and 30 seconds off over the multifidus on the
affected side. Pillow is under chest and affected thigh. Patient is to push into the pillow
with the knee when stimulation is felt. Undertake for 7 minutes each side.

Gait Training. Striding in neutral posture. Add to home exercise program

PHASE 3 EXERCISES

Continue electrical stimulation and psoas re-education.

Pilates Reformer. Improve functional core control and stability.

PHASE 4 EXERCISES

Continue electrical stimulation, psoas re-eduction and pilates reformer

Psoas Buttock Walk. Patient sits on the floor and advances forward with only the psoas.
The hands are in their laps or across their chest, but not used for assistance of forward
motion. Verbal cues are given to advance forward, alternating movement of one buttock
to the other without laterally shifting weight.
PHASE 5 EXERCISES

Continue electrical stimulation and psoas re-education as needed.

Stop pilates reformer.
Commence ball squats, core strengthening, gluteal exercises.
Continue gentle psoas stretching.
Provide home exercise program.

© Matthew J. Boyle, 2015