When someone walks through our clinic doors with stubborn hip pain, one of the first things they say is:

“I thought it was just a pulled muscle… but it’s not getting better.”

That’s a red flag for us. Because while a muscle strain often heals within a couple of weeks, pain that lingers, feels deep in the joint, or worsens with movement could point to something more complex—like a labral tear.

At Sports Life Work, we specialise in figuring out what’s really going on and creating a plan that works for your life, your sport, and your goals. Whether you’re dealing with a soft tissue strain or a deeper structural issue, our approach starts with clarity—and ends with confident movement.

First, What’s the Difference?

Muscle Strain

A strain happens when a muscle or tendon gets overstretched or torn—usually from a sudden movement, sprint, or overload.
Signs you might have a strain:

• Pain in the front or side of the hip

• Soreness when walking, lifting the leg, or stretching

• Local bruising or swelling in some cases

• Often improves with rest and gentle rehab

  Labral Tear

The labrum is a ring of cartilage that lines the hip socket. It provides stability and helps the joint move smoothly. A tear can occur from trauma, repetitive motion, or even wear over time.

Signs of a labral tear:

• Deep pain inside the hip or groin

• Clicking, locking, or catching sensations

• Pain that worsens with rotation, twisting, or prolonged sitting

• Limited range of movement that doesn’t improve with stretching

Why Accurate Assessment Is Key

We can’t stress this enough: effective rehab starts with the right diagnosis.

At our Sports Injury Clinic in Rutherglen, we don’t rely on guesswork or assumptions. Our team takes you through a full-body, movement-based assessment to see how your hip moves, loads, and compensates.

Here’s what that usually includes:

• Postural Analysis

We look at how you stand, sit, and carry weight—because hip pain is rarely just about the hip.

• Functional Movement Testing

Squats, lunges, single-leg stands, rotation checks—these tell us how your body responds to stress and where things break down.

• Manual Palpation and Joint Testing

Hands-on testing helps us pinpoint if the pain is coming from soft tissue, the joint capsule, or deeper structures like the labrum.

• Referral If Needed

If we suspect a labral tear that needs imaging or surgical input, we’ll help guide that process with local referral partners.

How We Treat Complex Hip Injuries

Whether we’re dealing with a gluteal strain, iliopsoas tendon irritation, or a suspected labral issue, our team builds your treatment plan around how you move, not just your symptoms.

Our Approach at Sports Life Work

• Hands-On Therapy

Manual therapy to reduce tension, restore joint movement, and improve blood flow to the injured area.

• Education & Load Management

We’ll explain what’s going on, and help you adjust your training, work, or daily movements to reduce strain while still staying active.

• Strength & Rehab Plan

Rehab is never a printout here. You’ll get exercises tailored to your body, your job, and your sport—whether that’s rugby, running, or lifting your toddler without flinching.

• Progress Monitoring

We adapt your plan as you improve. Not stuck doing clamshells for 12 weeks—actual progress, step by step.

Real Recovery Takes a Team

Whether it’s a mild strain or a long-standing labral tear, the truth is this: hip injuries are complex—but treatable.

With the right support, you can build strength, improve function, and move without fear.

At our Glasgow Health and Wellness Centre, you’ll work with a team that listens to your story, understands your movement, and treats you—not just your hip.

📍 Need help getting to the bottom of your hip pain?
Book in at our Active Recovery Clinic in Rutherglen today.

Let’s figure out what’s really going on—and build a plan to get you back on your feet, stronger than before.