What causes pain in the thigh muscle when bending over?

In general, pain and tightness in the thigh muscles when bending over may be caused by factors such as intense physical activity, lumbar muscle strain, lumbar disc herniation, osteoporosis, or myofascial inflammation. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Intense Physical Activity

Intense exercise can lead to muscle strain. Muscle fibers may tear when overstretched, causing pain and local inflammatory response. Pain typically worsens when bending the waist or performing leg flexion and extension movements. Applying ice packs can help reduce inflammation and swelling, followed by adequate rest and appropriate physical therapy, such as heat application, massage, and stretching exercises.

2. Lumbar Muscle Strain

Lumbar muscle strain may result from prolonged poor posture or repetitive labor. Overuse can damage the lower back muscles and ligaments, leading to pain and inflammation. If additional stress is placed on the lumbar muscles, pain may intensify during bending, potentially radiating to the thigh area. Appropriate rest, heat therapy, gentle stretching, and core muscle strengthening exercises are recommended to aid recovery.

3. Lumbar Disc Herniation

Lumbar disc herniation may be caused by prolonged desk work, acute trauma, or other factors. When the intervertebral disc protrudes posteriorly, it may compress the sciatic nerve, which innervates the muscles at the back of the thigh. Bending forward can exacerbate this compression, resulting in a sensation of tightness and pain in the thigh muscles. This condition may also be accompanied by lower back pain, numbness, or tingling in the lower limbs. Medications such as Gentongping Granules, Yaotongning Capsules, or Duhuo Jisheng Pills may be used under medical supervision for treatment.

4. Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis may be caused by aging, calcium deficiency, or other factors. Weakened bone density makes bones more brittle and prone to fractures. Compression fractures in the spine may compress nerves, causing leg pain. When bending over, this may affect the thigh area, leading to a sensation of tight, painful thigh muscles. Symptoms may also include reduced height, kyphosis (hunchback), and increased fracture risk. Treatment may involve medications such as oyster calcium carbonate tablets, alfacalcidol soft capsules, or elcatonin injection, as directed by a physician, to alleviate symptoms.

5. Myofascial Inflammation

Myofascial inflammation may arise from chronic strain or injury. Prolonged repetitive movements, poor posture, or overuse of certain muscle groups can lead to fibrotic changes in the fascia, making it stiff and tense. During movements such as bending over, the already-tight fascia undergoes further stretching, increasing stimulation of nerve endings and causing pain in the thigh muscles. Patients may also experience localized soreness, stiffness, and tenderness. Treatment options include etoricoxib tablets, ketoprofen gel patches, or celecoxib capsules, used according to medical advice.

During episodes of pain, it is important to rest and avoid strenuous activities or excessive fatigue. Additionally, keep the lower back and thighs warm to prevent exposure to cold.