Teenager's extreme muscle knot (?): to a doctor or a PT?

My daughter is on the swim team, and she is also taking spin at CHS. A couple of days ago she developed a HUGE muscle knot (we think) on or above the Iliac crest (my guess from looking at pics online). This is so gnarly that presents visibly form the outside as a lump, and that feels like an extra bone on her lower back/hip. She complains about feeling it when she is lying on her back on the floor, etc. we tried massaging it yesterday, but it's still there.

I'm just trying to speed things up by not wasting time at a doctor if I should jsut take her to a PT. WWYD? Should I just take her first to a sports PT? She could use one anyway I think, as shes super tight in some ways? Or should I go to the pediatrician, and then reco route--could be longer? Or should I take her to a physiatrist? Our current insurance does not require referrals for specialists, but I don't think it pays for massage therapy.

Many thanks in advance for recommendations.

I would start with a physician. Get a diagnosis.

Start with the doctor. She may need a prescription for the PT plus you may want to rule out other possibilities.

Yeah, now that I describe it and look online some more, I'm thinking you're right.

It helps to know about things by reading online but only a doctor can really diagnose a problem.

personally, I'd go right to a PT. or a chiropractor. Anytime I've had back or hip issues my dr. Might suggest an anti-inflammatory and that's about it.

Went to doc, who pushed and rubbed it a bit. Seems to be a knot and we will just focus on the "recovery" aspects with balls, rollers, etc. Thanks for the input, I really do appreciate it!