Association Between Adductor Longus, Iliopsoas and Rectus Abdominis Muscle Trigger Point and Groin Pain in Football Players: A Case Control Study

Abstract

Objective: To find the presence of trigger point in iliopsoas, adductor longus and rectus abdominis muscle and association between trigger point in these muscles and groin pain Study design: Case control study Method: A case control study was done on 60 football players (30 symptomatic with mean age 23.30 and 30 asymptomatic with mean age 21.76). All the participants were assessed for trigger points in rectus abdominis, iliopsoas and adductor longus muscles with manual palpation technique to check the pain response. Presence of myofascial trigger point were determined according to Simons and Gervin criteria. Results: Phi value for adductor longus muscle (0.484) and iliopsoas muscle (0.304) have shown association between trigger point and groin pain and were statistically significant (p<0.05). There were no association between trigger points in rectus abdominis muscle and groin pain. Discussion: Studies on EMG findings have shown greater activation of Hip flexors, Hip adductors, and abdominal muscles during kicking phase as these muscles act as a pelvic stabilizers. Thomas Mayer has explained the fascial continuity in deep front line between these muscles and trigger points in these muscles give referred pain in groin region. Conclusion:This study concluded strong association between myofascial trigger point in adductor longus and iliopsoas muscle in football athletes. So, football/soccer players can be assessed for trigger point to relieve groin pain and improve their performance.