Short and mid-term results of a comprehensive treatment program for longstanding adductor-related groin pain in athletes: A case series

Abstract

Objective To evaluate short and mid-term results of active physical therapy in athletes with longstanding groin pain. Design Case series. Setting Primary care physical therapy practice. Participants A total of 44 athletes suffering longstanding adductor-related groin pain. Intervention A combination of passive (joint mobilization) and active (exercises) physical therapy interventions. Main outcome measurements Return to (the same level of) sports, restriction in sports, and recurrence. Results Directly after treatment, return to the same level and type of sport was successful in 38 athletes (86%), and without symptoms in 34 athletes (77%). At 6.5–51 months follow up, 10/38 (26%) of those that returned to sports had experienced a relapse; 22 (50%) athletes were able to participate in sports without any restrictions at the mid-term follow-up. Conclusions For athletes with longstanding groin pain, short term results of physical therapy seem positive, whereas mid-term results are moderately positive. The risk for recurrence is high.