As a massage therapist working with a collegiate team I’ve seen some common pain problems and muscle tension that could lead to injury if not watched carefully.   Among hockey players the common area is the muscles with attachments at the hip; groin, quads, low back, TFL, IT band, are all areas that can lead to painful situations and even take your player off the ice if not watched carefully.

Groin injuries are related  to the adductor muscles that attach from the pelvis to the femur.  Groin pull symptoms are related to factors such as hip muscle strength and pre-season training. Because of this, proper conditioning is important to prevent the occurrence of a groin strain injury. Athletes, especially hockey players, should incorporate adductor strengthening, pelvic stabilization, and core strengthening exercises into workouts to prevent the occurrence of a pulled groin.

Lumbar Muscle Strain is the most common cause of low back pain. You may or may not remember the initial event that triggered your muscle spasm, a massage can help, in some cases one or two sessions while others may take a bit longer.  Your massage therapist should work with you regarding frequency and duration (typically  half-hour site specific session can do a lot to provide relief).

The TFL(tensor fascia latae) and  IT(Iliotibial Band), the oblique direction of fibers enable it to abduct the thigh and assist with internal rotatation and flexion of the hip inward (medial rotation).  In standing postures, it will serve to steady the pelvis on the head of the femur; and by means of the iliotibial band it steadies the condyles of the femur on the articular surfaces of the tibia, and assists the Glutæus maximus in supporting the knee in the extended position.