Hip Flexors Explained: The Hidden Link to Walking and Hip Pain

What Are the Hip Flexors?

Hip flexors are not one muscle.
They are a group of muscles that work together to:

• lift the leg

• stabilize the pelvis

• support safe walking and movement

Some of the major hip flexor muscles include the iliopsoas, rectus femoris, tensor fasciae latae (TFL), and sartorius.

That’s why hip flexor issues can show up as:

• groin or hip pain

• trouble lifting the leg when walking

• stiffness after sitting

• balance problems

• post-stroke weakness or tightness

• low back strain

New Video: What Are the Hip Flexors?

I just posted a new, detailed video explaining:

• what the hip flexors actually are

• the main muscles involved (not just one!)

• why they matter for walking and recovery

• how stroke can affect them

• why “tightness” isn’t always the full story

➡️ Watch the full video here:
Hip Flexors Explained: Walking, Tightness & Recovery After Stroke (Tracy Markley)

Feel free to leave a comment or question directly on the video — I always enjoy hearing what topics you’d like covered next.

If you’d like to learn the muscles of the body in a clear, simplified way, my book may be helpful:

Biomechanics of Your Body: A Simplified Way to Learn Human Movement and Muscles

It explains where muscles attach, what they do, and how movement works as a whole.

Grab your copy here on Amazon: Tracy L Markley books on Amazon

Quick Reminder

If you’ve been struggling with hip pain, stiffness, or difficulty walking…

Please know you’re not alone.

And sometimes simply understanding what’s happening in the body is the first step toward improving it safely.

My goal is always education, awareness, and helping you make informed choices — not adding stress. Knowledge gives us options, and options give us confidence.

As always, take what’s useful, leave what isn’t, and take good care of yourself.

Common Question: Can Hip Flexors Affect Walking After Stroke?

Yes. After stroke, hip flexors may become weak, tight, or affected by spasticity. This can make stepping forward and lifting the leg more difficult.

Understanding this muscle group is often an important part of walking recovery.

Ways to Support Your Health & Recovery

My Books
BALANCE WALKING AND FALL PREVENTION and my other titles are practical, encouraging, and written to be used, not just read.

Browse Books on Amazon    Browse Books on my Website

Books ordered now will still arrive before the holidays.

Online Courses
Perfect for anyone who prefers learning at home, at their own pace—especially those working on balance, walking, or rebuilding trust in their body.

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The Membership
Ongoing support, education, and gentle guidance all year long - because balance and strength are not one-time fixes. 

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A Personal Note

I know the holidays can bring joy—and sometimes a mix of emotions, memories, and challenges. Please know this: you are not alone, and small steps truly matter.