Rashmika Mandanna’s tendon injury is an extremely painful condition: Doctor explains reasons
Published: October 03, 2026 02:30 PM IST
Consulting an orthopaedic surgeon and getting an MRI scan is essential for an accurate diagnosis, preventing the injury from escalating into a long-term mobility issue.
Popular Indian actor Rashmika Mandanna recently revealed to her followers on social media that she had suffered a severe hip injury during a dance rehearsal session in early August. The injury, identified as a hip abductor avulsion (or tendon tear), is a painful condition that significantly impacts physical mobility. Usually seen in athletes and individuals undergoing extreme physical strain, this condition warrants careful medical attention and structured recovery. Dr Harikrishnan Sajeevkumar, Orthopaedics Specialist at KIMSHEALTH, Kottayam, explains.
The science behind hip abductor injuries
Our hips rely on a complex network of muscles and tendons to function smoothly and stay aligned. Key among these are the gluteus medius and gluteus minimus muscles, located on the outer side of the pelvis, which are anchored to the bones by tough bands of fibrous tissue called tendons. These structures play a critical role in stabilising the pelvis, maintaining balance while standing or walking, and enabling us to lift our legs sideways and upwards. When sudden, high-impact movements—such as choreography, jumping, or heavy resistance training—place extreme stress on these tissues, the tendon can tear or completely detach from the bone, resulting in an avulsion.
Key symptoms of a hip tendon tear
A hip abductor tear is highly debilitating and painful. The primary symptom is a sharp, persistent pain on the outer side of the hip that can radiate down into the thigh area. Patients typically experience extreme difficulty lifting their leg sideways or upwards from the ground. Because the affected hip cannot bear the body’s weight properly, the injury often causes a pronounced limp, with the torso tilting to one side during walking.
Treatment, surgery and the road to recovery
The approach to treating a hip abductor avulsion depends heavily on the extent of the damage. For partial tears, conservative management is highly effective, combining prescribed medication with strict rest and targeted physiotherapy to rebuild muscular strength. However, if the tendon has completely detached from the bone, surgical intervention is required to reanchor it. Ignoring early signs of hip discomfort and continuing to train through pain is what often leads to these severe “freak injuries,” making complete rest non-negotiable for healing.
Dietary adjustments and modified workouts
During the recovery phase, high-impact workouts such as running and heavy weightlifting must be temporarily suspended. To prevent weight gain during this period of reduced activity, it is vital to avoid processed foods and high-sugar treats. Instead, focus on a protein-rich diet to aid cellular repair and speed up tissue regeneration. Gentle, upper-body exercises may be performed, but only under the direct supervision of a healthcare provider.
Expert orthopaedic advice
Persistent hip pain or difficulty moving your leg after a strenuous workout or dance session should never be brushed aside as mere muscle soreness. Consulting an orthopaedic surgeon and getting an MRI scan is essential for an accurate diagnosis, preventing the injury from escalating into a long-term mobility issue.