What is the adductor longus tendon?

The adductor longus is a tendon in the medial thigh. The muscle is large and fan-shaped,

How do adductor longus tendon injuries usually occur?

Injuries of this muscle are common among athletes. Strains or tears of the adductor longus tendon typically occur during acute muscle contraction.

It commonly occurs when kicking or pivoting the leg. Activities that typically lead to injury include martial arts, gymnastics, football and running. Injury is more likely to happen if the muscle wasn’t warmed up or stretched. The symptoms of an injury are the sudden onset of pain in the inner thigh.

How is it diagnosed?

A physical exam is usually sufficient to diagnose an injury of the adductor longus tendon. An MRI may help in determining whether or not the injury requires surgery.

How is it treated?

Adductor longus tendon injuries usually respond to conservative treatment. If you are suffering from this injury you will most likely need to rest the affected muscle as much as possible. You may be instructed to use crutches. Anti-inflammatory medication, as well as applying ice are usually recommended. Physiotherapy is sometimes also recommended.

Can it heal on its own?

If your injury is not severe, it may heal on its own, as long as you rest and elevate the injured leg and apply ice.

How long does it take for an adductor longus tendon injury to heal?

The amount of time needed for the injury to heal completely depends on the extent of the injury, and what part of the muscle is injured. Generally, it can range from 4 to 16 weeks. A specialist will be able to tell you how long it will take for your specific injury to heal.

When does it require surgery?

Conservative treatment is usually recommended, but if this is not providing relief from the painful symptoms, your doctor may recommend surgery. In this case, an MRI may be required to assess the injury and confirm whether or not the injury requires surgery.

What does the surgery involve?

Adductor tenotomy is one of the surgical procedures that can provide relief if suffering from recurrent adductor longus tendon tears. Also known as adductor release, this procedure involves severing the tendon from the bone, relieving tension on your pubic bone, as well as relief from the pain and disability that comes with it.

If your adductor muscle has avulsed or torn away from the bone, surgery may be required to reattach it. The type of surgery you will need depends on your personal symptoms and circumstances. Your doctor will be able to tell you which procedure is correct for you.

Will I require physiotherapy after the surgery?

Physiotherapy is typically required both before and after the surgery. When done before your surgery physiotherapy can help you manage your symptoms and try to have as normal a life as possible until the surgery has been done.

Following the surgery, physiotherapy will help you recover the strength and range of movement that you had prior to the initial injury.

Which specialist treats an adductor longus tendon injury?

Orthopaedic surgeons usually treat adductor longus tendon injuries.