Gracilis and semi ten/mem insertion

[Chris GST]

Hi all,

I have a recurring issue with the lower insertion part of my gracilis, semi membranosis/tendonosis. Every time I do a straight legged stretch such as straddle work or pike work it flares up and causes localised pain for a few days. I can stretch using bent leg stretches no problem and it causes no pain. I'm also making good progress using these bent leg stretches.

My question really, is what is causing it and why does the bent leg make a difference?

Anyone have experience with recovery from this?

[oliviaa]

Hi Chris

Straight-kneed legs apart positions expose gracilis, the only adductor that crosses (inserts below) the knee joint. In everyone, gracilis and the inner hamstring need to lengthen at different rates to allow the straight-kneed legs apart movement. If there is any adhesion which inhibits this, a very uncomfortable pain can be experienced in this line. For many people it's felt right across the inside line of the knee, and for other people, somewhere mid-inner thigh. It doesn't feel 'muscular'; more like a "piano wire about to snap" – that's a common descriptor. If fascial adhesion is in play, it must be released: you can't do this to yourself – too intense, you won't be able to 'get in deep enough' on yourself.

See Kit's YT clip at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zLewsx9rL_8

Pretty sure we did this in the workshop in New York in Oct 2014, too ...

Cheers
Olivia