Andy Murray has made a much anticipated return to competition following an almost year-long lay off with a hip injury. Since injuring himself, Murray has not disclosed the exact nature of his injury. However, it was serious enough to warrant surgery. Hip complaints are fairly common among elite tennis players, with labral tears, hip flexor strain, adductor strains and sports hernias counting among the most commonly treated hip injuries.
Due to the nature of the sport, tennis players are susceptible to these injuries. The hips are subjected to the extremes of motion, which in turn places the joint and surrounding soft tissues under significant pressure. The hip muscles experience flexion, extension and rotation during the transfer of force from the feet to the racquet (kinetic chain). This constant stopping, starting and change of direction subject the hips to an elevated level of strain.
Murray’s return to the ATP circuit ended in defeat at the hands of Australia’s perennial enfant terrible Nick Kyrgios in the first round of the Queen’s Club Championship. The closely fought match went to three sets and Murray appeared unaffected, which bodes well for his appearance at this year’s Wimbledon Open. However, Murray has yet to decide whether he will compete this year, preferring to concentrate on returning to full fitness. We wish him all the best in his journey back to optimal health.
