Hip Abductor Strength Research Articles

Feasibility and acceptability of a six-month exercise and patient education intervention for patients with hip dysplasia: A mixed methods study

Background and objectivesTo evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of exercise and patient education for patients with hip dysplasia not receiving surgery. DesignFeasibility study. MethodsThe participants received exercise instruction and patient education over six months. Feasibility covered recruitment, retention, and mechanisms of change (MC). MC were measured with Hip and Groin Outcome Score (HAGOS), muscle strength tests, Y-balance test, and hop for distance test (HDT) over six months. Acceptability covered adherence, expectations, perceptions, benefits, and harms. ResultsThirty of 32 were recruited (median age: 30 years); six were lost to follow-up. Twenty-four participants improved by a mean of 11 (95%CI: 5–17) HAGOS pain points, improvements in all subscales were 1–11 points. Mean hip abduction strength improved 0.2 (95%CI: 0.04–0.4) Nm/kg, similar to flexion and extension. Median Y-balance test improvements: anterior: 70 (IQR: 64–74) to 75 (IQR: 72–80) centimetres; posteromedial: 104 (IQR: 94–112) to 119 (IQR: 112–122) centimetres and posterolateral: 98 (IQR: 89–109) to 116 (IQR: 108–121) centimetres (p < .001). Median improvement in HDT was: 37 (IQR: 30–44) to 52 (IQR: 45–58) centimetres (p < .001). Participants adhered to 84% of scheduled sessions (1,581:1,872), expectations were met, and perceptions were characterized by high self-efficacy for exercise. Benefits were reported with no serious harms. ConclusionPatients with hip dysplasia are willing to be recruited for exercise and patient education, with acceptable retention. MC were observed through improvements in pain, strength and function with high acceptance of the exercise and patient education intervention. Thus, it seems feasible to conduct a full-scale randomised controlled trial.

Is There an Association between the Quality of Life of Incontinence Symptoms and the Hip Joint Muscles Strength in Women with Stress Urinary Incontinence?

Background For establishing an accurate target for rehabilitation of stress urinary incontinence (SUI), it is necessary to determine whether there is an association between the pelvic floor muscle (PFM) and hip joint muscle strength and quality of life (QoL) of incontinence symptoms. Purpose The purpose of the current study was to confirm the correlation between QoL of incontinence symptoms and PFM strength, hip extensor, abductor, and adductor strength in women with SUI. Study design Cross sectional study Methods Forty-two women with SUI were recruited for the present study. PFM performance was measured by perineometry. Hip extensor, abductor and adductor strength were measured by dynamometry. QoL of incontinence symptoms was measured by incontinence quality of life questionnaire (I-QOL). The significance of the correlations between I-QOL and hip joint muscle and PFM strength was assessed using Pearson correlation coefficients. Alpha value was set at 0.05. Results Avoidance and limiting behaviors factor in I-QOL was correlated with PFM strength (<italic>r</italic>=0.524, <italic>p</italic>&lt;0.05), hip adductor strength (<italic>r</italic>=0.356, <italic>p</italic>&lt;0.05) and hip abductor strength (<italic>r</italic>=0.352, <italic>p</italic>&lt;0.05) in the order. The total score in I-QOL was correlated with PFM strength (<italic>r</italic>=0.368, <italic>p</italic>&lt;0.05). Conclusions When designing which muscles to train for improving QoL of incontinence symptoms, the hip joint muscle as well as the PFM could be considered.

Hip Adduction and Abduction Strength Profiles Among Bantam, High School, Juniors, and Collegiate American Ice Hockey Players.

BackgroundAdductor strains are the most common non-contact musculoskeletal injury sustained in ice hockey. Systematic reviews have determined higher level of play and lower hip adduction to abduction strength ratios to be associated with an increased risk of adductor strain across multiple sports. Limited research exists regarding hip adduction and abduction strength profiles across various levels of ice hockey players.PurposeTo compare isometric hip adduction and abduction strength profiles among bantam, high school, tier one juniors, and NCAA Division I collegiate ice hockey players. A secondary purpose was to identify whether differences in strength profiles between dominant and non-dominant limbs exist.Study DesignCross-sectional cohort study.MethodsA questionnaire of demographic data, hockey, and injury specific information was completed by all subjects. The mean of three reps of maximal hip isometric adduction and abduction strengths were quantified using a handheld dynamometer with external belt-fixation. Ratios of hip adduction-to-abduction strength were calculated and normalized for body weight.ResultsA total of 87 uninjured skaters were included in this study with a mean age of 17 years. Mean hip adductor-to-abductor ratios for Bantam hockey players were 121% followed by collegiate (115%), Juniors (111%), and high school (109%) hockey players. No statistically significant differences were found between peak hip adduction and abduction isometric strength and playing level. In addition, there was no difference between unilateral hip strength ratios and shooting hand or leg dominance. While 34.5% of subjects reported a history of adductor injury, no significant differences existed regarding strength ratios during bilateral comparison or when compared to their team norms. Three subjects were found to have unilateral ratios of less than 80%, while two subjects demonstrated bilateral ratios of less than 80%.ConclusionsSymmetry is illustrated between dominant and non-dominant legs in ice hockey players with and without a history of adductor injury. Results align well with previously established cross-sectional data from Australian football, with ratios of 103% in high school players, 107% in semi-professional players, and 113% in collegiate players.Level of EvidenceLevel 3

The Impact of Concomitant Meniscus Repair on Functional and Patient Reported Outcomes at Return to Activity in Paediatric Patients Undergoing ACL Reconstruction

Background:Paediatric patients undergoing Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) reconstruction often present with a repairable meniscus tear. When a conservative early post-operative rehabilitation protocol is used to protect the meniscus repair, some have wondered whether this has an effect on functional and subjective outcomes, or time required, at return to activity.Purpose:The goal of this study was to compare the quantitative lower limb functional measures and subjective patient reported outcome scores at Return to Activity (RTA) in paediatric patients undergoing ACL reconstruction, with or without meniscus repair.Methods:This study was performed as a retrospective comparative cohort analysis of prospectively collected data in paediatric patients undergoing ACL reconstruction. Inclusion criteria for this study included a full data set and a visit to our biomechanics lab post-operatively, after being cleared for RTA by their attending surgeon. If a repairable meniscus injury was present, it was repaired concurrently with ACL reconstruction. Patients with a meniscus repair were provided rehabilitation guidelines that included partial weightbearing and limited range of motion (ROM) for six weeks, whereas full weightbearing and unrestricted ROM was recommended for the non-meniscal repair group. Postoperative quantitative knee functional outcome variables (drop vertical jump ground reaction forces, isometric knee extension/flexion strength, and hip abduction strength) were expressed as limb symmetry indices (LSIs; reconstructed limb/uninjured limb). Patient reported subjective knee outcome scores (Tegner and HSS Pedi-FABS) were also obtained. Differences in outcome measures were assessed using Mann-Whitney U-test and independent T-tests.Results:Twenty-four paediatric ACL reconstruction patients met criteria for inclusion in this study. Thirteen patients had a meniscus repair (median age 15 (13-17)) and 11 patients did not (median age 15.8 (14-17)). The median days between surgery and follow-up was 267 (168-460) days for the meniscus repair group and 251 (167-435) days for the non-meniscus repair group. There were no differences between the groups for the postoperative drop vertical jump test (p=0.21), knee extension/flexion strength (p=0.88/0.46) and hip abduction strength (p=0.46). Both groups also displayed similar Tegner (6.1/6.2) and Pedi-FABS (12.5/12.8) scores.Conclusion:Despite conservative weight-bearing and range of motion restrictions, repair of the meniscus in combination with ACL reconstruction in pediatric patients does not appear to induce a meaningful strength deficit at the return-to-activity evaluation phase, and is therefore not expected to influence return to activity in comparison with non-meniscus repair patients. This is important guidance for paediatric patients, families, and rehabilitation professionals involved in the care of young athletes.Table 1.Patient characteristicsTable 2.Post-operative patient reported outcome scores

A Robot-Assisted Therapy to Increase Muscle Strength in Hemiplegic Gait Rehabilitation.

This study examines the feasibility of using a robot-assisted therapy methodology based on the Bobath concept to perform exercises applied in conventional therapy for gait rehabilitation in stroke patients. The aim of the therapy is to improve postural control and movement through exercises based on repetitive active-assisted joint mobilization, which is expected to produce strength changes in the lower limbs. As therapy progresses, robotic assistance is gradually reduced and the patient's burden increases with the goal of achieving a certain degree of independence. The relationship between force and range of motion led to the analysis of both parameters of interest. The study included 23 volunteers who performed 24 sessions, 2 sessions per week for 12 weeks, each lasting about 1 h. The results showed a significant increase in hip abduction and knee flexion strength on both sides, although there was a general trend of increased strength in all joints. However, the range of motion at the hip and ankle joints was reduced. The usefulness of this platform for transferring exercises from conventional to robot-assisted therapies was demonstrated, as well as the benefits that can be obtained in muscle strength training. However, it is suggested to complement the applied therapy with exercises for the maintenance and improvement of the range of motion.

Development of a Clinical Prediction Rule to Identify Physical Activity After Total Hip Arthroplasty

ObjectiveTo develop clinical prediction rule (CPR) of physical activity 1 year after total hip arthroplasty (THA). DesignRetrospective cohort study. SettingUniversity hospital with orthopedic surgery. ParticipantsThe study group included 321 patients (56 men) who underwent primary THA (N=321). InterventionNot applicable. Main Outcomes MeasuresThe data collected included age, body mass index, clinical score from the questionnaires, hip pain, range of motion, muscle strength, and Physical functions (10-meter walk test [10MWT], timed Up and Go test, sit-to-stand test). Patients were classified into sufficient and insufficient activity groups based on their University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) activity score 1 year after THA. Variables measured preoperatively and 3 weeks postoperatively were analyzed using univariate and multivariate methods to derive CPR for physical activity. ResultsA CPR was developed using the following 5 factors and cutoffs: age 70.5 years or younger, preoperative UCLA activity score ≥3.5, preoperative hip abduction strength ≥0.54 Nm/kg, preoperative knee extension strength ≥1.04 Nm/kg, and 10MWT ≤8.49 seconds 3 weeks after surgery. The presence of 4 of the 5 factors predicted a sufficient physical activity level at 1 year, with a positive likelihood ratio of 5.94 and probability of 85.4%. The presence of 5 predictor variables increased the probability of sufficient physical activity after THA to 94.7%. ConclusionsThis study developed a CPR for physical activity 1 year after THA. Having 4 or more of the 5 measurements were useful indicators for predicting of physical activity 1 year postoperatively.

Musculoskeletal Asymmetry in Young Soccer Players: Differences between the Dominant and Nondominant Leg

The purpose of this investigation was to clarify the differences in the musculoskeletal profiles between the dominant leg (DL) and nondominant leg (NDL) of Japanese soccer players. This study included 227 young elite soccer players (121 males and 106 females with mean ages of 19.0 and 17.5 years, respectively). Anthropometric measurements were obtained. In addition, joint range of motion measurements was performed for internal rotation of the hip, ankle dorsiflexion, and knee extension. Muscle flexibility tests were performed on the iliopsoas, quadriceps femoris, hamstring, gastrocnemius, and soleus muscles. Moreover, isometric knee extension, flexion strength, and isometric hip abduction strength were measured. Single-leg balance tests were also performed. As a result, in male soccer players, DL's knee flexor strength and hip abductor strength were significantly stronger than in the NDL. In female soccer players, knee extension and knee flexion strength of the DL were significantly stronger than the NDL. In male soccer players, the hamstring-quadriceps ratio of the DL was significantly greater than NDL. DL demonstrated a significantly lesser center of pressure excursion in the single-leg balance test in male and female soccer players. In both male and female soccer players, the quadriceps muscle of DL was significantly more flexible than those of the NDL. There was no difference in the internal rotation angle of the hip joint between the DL and NDL in male soccer players. In contrast, the internal rotation angle of the DL was significantly (1.6°) greater than NDL in female soccer players. For some anthropometric measurements, muscle flexibility tests and joint range of motion measurements, the difference between the DL and NDL was significant but not large enough to be clinically relevant. In conclusion, the present study showed musculoskeletal asymmetry between the DL and NDL in young male and female soccer players.

The Association Between Chronological Age and Maturity Status on Lower Body Clinical Measurements and Asymmetries in Elite Youth Tennis Players.

Tennis is one of the most popular sports among youths. At elite levels, a notable increase in injury incidence and a temporary decline in performance may occur when children progress through puberty. However, limited research has explored maturity-associated variations in clinical measurements suggested as predictors of injury and tennis performance in elite youth players. Therefore, the main purpose of this study was to analyze the association between chronological age and maturity status on several measures of neuromuscular capability and physical performance as well as bilateral (interlimb) asymmetries in elite youth tennis players. Youth tennis players around peak height velocity (PHV) will show higher growth-related impairments or deficits in measures of neuromuscular capability and physical performance than their less (pre-PHV) and more (post-PHV) mature counterparts irrespective of sex. Level 4. A total of 68 male (age, 13.7 ± 1.1 years; height, 162.4 ± 9.4 cm; body mass, 51.4 ± 10.3 kg [Mean values ± SD]) and 60 female (age, 13.6 ± 1.1 years; height, 162.8 ± 7.2 cm; body mass, 52.7 ± 7.5 kg [Mean values ± SD]) elite youth tennis players from 2 different age groups (under 13 [U13] and under 15 [U15]) and maturity status (pre-PHV, around PHV, and post-PHV), were tested during national training camps. Tests included the Y Balance Test, isometric hip abduction and adduction strength, hip ranges of motion (ROMs), and countermovement jump (CMJ) height. Bayesian analysis was used to establish any significant between-group differences. Only dynamic balance (in boys; Bayesian factor [BF10] = 88.2) and jump height (in both boys and girls; BF10 >100) were significatively associated with chronological age, whereby the U15 group showed lower Y Balance Test reach distances (-6%; standardized effect size δ = 0.62) but higher CMJ height scores (+18%; δ = 0.73) than the U13 group. Although boys jump higher (+11%; δ = 0.62) and were stronger in isometric hip adduction strength (+14%; δ = 0.92) than girls, the latter had greater hip internal ROM values (+15%; δ = 0.75). Furthermore, relevant maturity-associated effects (BF10 = 34.6) were solely observed for the CMJ test in boys, with the most mature players demonstrating higher jump height scores (+12%; δ = 0.93). Finally, a significant percentage (>25%) of tennis players, independent of sex, demonstrated bilateral asymmetries in hip ROM, hip strength, and jump height values. The findings of this study show that in U13 and U15 male and female tennis players, there were neither positive nor negative maturity-associated variations in the clinical measurements analyzed (with the exception of jump height in male players). The high proportion of tennis players showing bilateral asymmetries in dynamic balance, hip ROM, and strength and jump performance highlight the need of future studies to analyze these factors in relation to unilateral tennis-specific adaptations in the musculoskeletal and sensorimotor systems. These results may help to better understand how different clinical measurements are associated with the process of growth and maturation in elite youth tennis players and may aid in the design of specific training interventions during these stages of development.

Therapeutic Effects of Functional Electrical Stimulation on Physical Performance and Muscle Strength in Post-stroke Older Adults: A Review.

Stroke-related disabilities cause poor physical performance, especially among older adults, and can lead to sarcopenia. Functional electrical stimulation (FES) has been used to improve physical performance in individuals with neurological disorders and increase muscle mass and strength to counteract muscle atrophy. This review covers the principles, underlying mechanisms, and therapeutic effects of FES on physical performance and skeletal muscle function in post-stroke older adults. We found that FES restored weakened dorsiflexor and hip abductor strength during the swing and stance phases of gait, respectively, to help support weight-bearing and upright posture and facilitate static and dynamic balance in this population. FES may also be effective in improving muscle mass and strength to prevent muscle atrophy. However, previous studies on this topic in post-stroke older adults are scarce, and further studies are needed to confirm this supposition.

Sex differences in the relationship of hip strength and functional performance to chronic ankle instability scores

BackgroundWhile decreased hip abductor strength, functional performance, and self-reported instability scores have all been shown in association with CAI, any sex difference in the relationship between these indicators is unclear. This study was to determine whether sex differences are present in the relationship between these indicators in individuals with CAI.MethodsThirty-two women and twenty-nine men with unilateral CAI took part. Hip abductor strength and functional performance were respectively assessed using a hand-held dynamometer and the figure-8-hop test. All 61 participants scored the Cumberland Ankle Instability Tool (CAIT) for self-reported ankle instability. Independent sample t-tests and correlation analysis were conducted.ResultsNormalized hip abductor strength and functional performance measures for females were lower than for males. The self-reported ankle instability CAIT score, where higher values represent less instability, was significantly and positively correlated with both normalized hip abductor strength (p = 0.003) and functional performance (p = 0.001) on the affected side in females, but not in males (p = 0.361 and p = 0.192 respectively).ConclusionsSex differences were observed in that there were significant relationships between normalized hip abductor strength, functional performance, and CAIT scores in female CAI participants, but not males, suggesting that CAI evaluation and rehabilitation strategies should be sex-specific.HighlightsIn females with CAI, hip abductor strength and functional performance showed significant relationships with self-reported instability scores.Correspondingly, in clinical practice with individuals with CAI, evaluation criteria may be formulated according to these observed sex differences.Sex differences should be factored into the evaluation and treatment of CAI individuals.Hip strength assessment should be employed with CAI individuals.Hip strengthening and functional hopping may be recommended for the rehabilitation of CAI, especially in female patients.

Comparison of hip abductor strength in pre-professional ballet dancers with and without snapping hip

Objective: To compare hip abductor muscle strength in ballet dancers with and without snapping hip syndrome and to evaluate the correlation between Hip and Groin Outcome Score (HAGOS) sub-scores and snapping intensity Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in randomly selected dancers, allocated to 3 groups according to their assessment by anterior hip pain or snapping in physical examination. The subjects completed the HAGOS survey. Subsequently, hip abductor strength was measured using a hand-held dynamometer. The study was carried out on a total of 70 pre-professional ballet dancers (140 hips, aged 16-20). Participants classified into three groups based on medical history and physical examination (G1: pain (-) snapping (-); G2: pain (-), snapping (+); G3: snapping (+) and pain (+)). Secondly, all hips were classified into three groups (H1: pain (-), snapping (-), H2: pain (-), snapping (+), H3: pain (+), snapping (+). Snapping intensity in participants rated by the frequency of snapping (between level 0-4) according to their self-report. Differences were assessed between dancers and hips with snapping hip and without snapping hip. Results: There was no difference in hip abductor strength levels between three hip groups (p=0.446). However, significant differences were observed in mHAGOS, pHAGOS, sHAGOS mean values between the three (G1, G2, G3) groups (p&lt;0,001; p&lt;0,001; p&lt;0,001, respectively). sHAGOS, pHAGOS and mHAGOS mean values were significantly higher in G1 and G2 when compared to G3. Besides, there were negative correlation between snapping intensity and mHAGOS (p=0.002, rho=-0.37), pHAGOS (p=0.001, rho=-0.39) and sHAGOS (p=&lt;0.001, rho=-0.55). Conclusion: Hip abductor strength levels were not significantly affected by the presence of snapping in dancers; further investigation is needed in this regard. However, the results revealed that HAGOS sub-scores and snapping intensity is related. HAGOS questionnaire might be implemented to the dancers as a preseason screening method for snapping hip.

Strength and Biomechanical Risk Factors for Noncontact ACL Injury in Elite Female Footballers: A Prospective Study.

This study aimed to determine if a preseason field-based test battery was prospectively associated with noncontact anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in elite female footballers. In total, 322 elite senior and junior female Australian Rules Football and soccer players had their isometric hip adductor and abductor strength, eccentric knee flexor strength, countermovement jump (CMJ) kinetics, and single-leg hop kinematics assessed during the 2019 preseason. Demographic and injury history details were also collected. Footballers were subsequently followed for 18 months for ACL injury. Fifteen noncontact ACL injuries occurred during the follow-up period. Prior ACL injury (odds ratio [OR], 9.68; 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 2.67-31.46), a lower isometric hip adductor to abductor strength ratio (OR, 1.98; 95% CI, 1.09-3.61), greater CMJ peak take-off force (OR, 1.74; 95% CI, 1.09-3.61), and greater single-leg triple vertical hop average dynamic knee valgus (OR, 1.97; 95% CI, 1.06-3.63) and ipsilateral trunk flexion (OR, 1.60; 95% CI, 1.01-2.55) were independently associated with an increased risk of subsequent ACL injury. A multivariable prediction model consisting of CMJ peak take-off force, dynamic knee valgus, and ACL injury history that was internally validated classified ACL injured from uninjured footballers with 78% total accuracy. Between-leg asymmetry in lower limb strength and CMJ kinetics were not associated with subsequent ACL injury risk. Preseason field-based measures of lower limb muscle strength and biomechanics were associated with future noncontact ACL injury in elite female footballers. These risk factors can be used to guide ACL injury screening practices and inform the design of targeted injury prevention training in elite female footballers.

Hip Abductor Strength Asymmetry: Relationship to Upper Extremity Injury in Professional Baseball Players.

Hip strength is an important factor for control of the lumbo-pelvic-hip complex. Deficits in hip strength may affect throwing performance and contribute to upper extremity injuries. Deficits in hip abduction isometric strength would be greater in those who sustained an upper extremity injury and hip strength would predict injury incidence. Prospective cohort study. Level 3. Minor League baseball players (n = 188, age = 21.5 ± 2.2 years; n = 98 pitchers; n = 90 position players) volunteered. Hip abduction isometric strength was assessed bilaterally with a handheld dynamometer in side-lying position, expressed as torque using leg length (N·m). Hip abduction strength asymmetry was represented by [(trail leg/lead leg) × 100]. Overuse or nontraumatic throwing arm injuries were prospectively tracked. Poisson regression models were used to estimate relative risk ratios associated with hip asymmetry; confounders, including history of prior overuse injury in the past year, were included. Hip abduction asymmetry ranged from 0.05% to 57.5%. During the first 2 months of the season, 18 players (n = 12 pitchers) sustained an upper extremity injury. In pitchers, for every 5% increase in hip abduction asymmetry, there was a 1.24 increased risk of sustaining a shoulder or elbow injury. No relationship between hip abduction strength and injury was observed for position players. Hip abduction asymmetry in pitchers was related to subsequent upper extremity injuries. The observed risk ratio indicates that hip abduction asymmetry may contribute a significant but small increased risk of injury. Hip abduction muscle deficits may affect pitching mechanics and increase arm stress. Addressing hip asymmetry deficits that exceed 5% may be beneficial in reducing upper extremity injury rates in pitchers.

Cementless modular total hip arthroplasty with subtrochanteric transverse shortening osteotomy for high hip dislocations

BackgroundPerforming a total hip arthroplasty for a high hip dislocation is technically demanding and presents several challenges, with appropriate evaluation of the bone morphology of the hip and proper implant selection being critical for successful outcomes.ObjectiveThe purpose of our study was to evaluate the clinical and radiographic outcomes of cementless modular total hip arthroplasty for the treatment of high hip dislocations with sub-trochanteric transverse shortening osteotomy.MethodsSixty-eight hips with a high hip dislocation, were treated using a sub-trochanteric transverse shortening osteotomy and cementless modular total hip arthroplasty, retrospectively reviewed. Hip function was assessed using the Harris hip score, with hip abduction strength evaluated using the Trendelenburg test. Radiographic assessment included the measurement of leg length discrepancy, identification of implant loosening, localization of the hip center, and union at the osteotomy site.ResultsThe mean follow-up period was 12.9 (range 5.2–16.8) years. The mean Harris hip score improved from a pre-operative score of 48.6 ± 3.6 to 82.4 ± 4.2 (p < 0.05). The hip was within the true acetabulum in all patients, postoperatively. Osteotomy union was achieved in 67 of the 68 hips (98.5%) in a mean latency of 12.5 ± 0.6 weeks. The mean length of femoral shortening was 66.5 ± 4.5 mm, with a mean pull-down length of the proximal part of 35.5 ± 3.5 mm.ConclusionFor the treatment of high hip dislocations with satisfactory clinical outcomes, the modular stem offers an adjustable anteversion angle to restore sufficient rotational stability and the transverse osteotomy provides sufficient compression pressure across the osteotomy site to facilitate union.Trial registration It was a retrospective study and approved by Istanbul Research and Training Hospital institutional Ethics Review Board (772-05/02/2016).

Impact of hip abductor and adductor strength on dynamic balance and ankle biomechanics in young elite female basketball players

This study aimed to evaluate, in an isolated and relative manner, hip abductor (ABD) and adductor (AD) strength and to study the extent to which these factors are related to balance and ankle dorsiflexion mobility in young elite female basketball players. Sixty trainee-level elite female basketball players (13–18 years old), who voluntarily agreed to participate in the study, were divided into three subgroups based on competition age divisions (U14, U16, U18). Isometric hip ABD and AD strength in each leg was evaluated using the ForceFrame Strength Testing System, also calculating the strength ratio and imbalance between legs. Y Balance Test (YBT) and ankle dorsiflexion mobility were also assessed. ANOVA was used for between-group differences analysis. Likewise, the impact of hip strength on balance and ankle mobility was analyzed using Pearson's correlation coefficient. A linear regression model for dependent variables was created with all variables that exhibited significant correlations. A between-group comparison analysis for the three competition age subgroups (U14, U16, U18) revealed non-significant differences (p > 0.005) for the hip strength variables except for hip ABD strength. The correlation study showed low-moderate effect sizes for hip ABD (in both the contralateral and homolateral limb) and AD strength (only the homolateral limb) with YBT and ankle dorsiflexion. However, when performing a regression model, only right hip ABD significantly predicted right limb YBT scores (β = 0.592, p = 0.048). The present study indicated that, although both hip ABD and AD strength correlate with balance and ankle mobility with low-moderate effect sizes, only hip ABD strength was found to significantly predict YBT scores. Therefore, the potential role of hip ABD strength in particular, but also hip AD strength, for monitoring and enhancing balance and ankle mobility outcomes, should be taken into consideration when designing and implementing preventive strategies for lower-limb injuries.

The effects of the FIVE futsal injury prevention program on lower limb muscle strength among young futsal players.

Our previous study has developed FIVE, futsal neuromuscular warm-up program to improve physical performance components and prevent the incidence of futsal injury. Experimental research was needed to verify the effect of FIVE program on physical performance components affecting injury, such as lower limb muscle strength. This study aimed to investigate the effect of FIVE program on the lower limb muscle strength among young futsal players. Ninety-five young male futsal players were recruited using purposive random sampling from futsal clubs in Indonesia. The players were randomized into 2 groups; 42 players were in the experimental (EXP) group, and 53 players were in the control (CON) group. The EXP group performed FIVE exercises in addition to their regular futsal training, and the CON group performed their regular futsal training only. Both groups performed the intervention three times per week within 6 weeks. All players completed pre-and post-intervention lower limb muscle strength tests comprising the isometric leg strength, isometric hip abduction strength, and isometric hip adduction. The strength test was conducted using dynamometer. Changes in performance (pre- vs. post-intervention) of each group were analyzed using paired t-test and Wilcoxon Test. The pre- and post-strength test changes (Δ post-pre) between EXP and CON group was compared using independent T-test and Mann Whitney test. Statistical significance was set to P<0.05. Thirty-one players dropped out in this study. This study showed all measurements on lower limb muscle strength improved significantly in the EXP group (P<0.05) while hip abduction and hip adduction strength were significantly decreased in the CON group. Improvement of isometric hip abduction and adduction strength in the EXP group was significantly different from the CON group (P=0.00 and P=0.00, respectively). Results suggest that FIVE could be an alternative warm-up program to improve lower limb muscle strength among young futsal players.

The Effectiveness of the External Support on the Strength and Muscle Activity of Hip Abductor in Subject Without Core Stability

The Effectiveness of the External Support on the Strength and Muscle Activity of Hip Abductor in Subject Without Core Stability

Comparison between side-lying and standing positions for hip abductor strength assessment

BackgroundThe hip abductor muscles control the pelvis in the frontal plane and allow the maintenance of trunk position and dynamic balance during weight-bearing activities. ObjectiveTo compare the side-lying and standing positions for hip abductor strength assessment with regards to torque production and myolectric activity. MethodConcentric and eccentric hip abductor peak torque and total work, and myoelectric activity of the tensor fascia lata, gluteus medius, and inferior and superior portions of the gluteus maximus muscles were measured during maximal isokinetic tests for hip abductor strength in the side-lying and standing positions. The Wilcoxon test was used to compare variables between the positions. ResultsPeak torque values did not differ between side-lying and standing positions for both concentric and eccentric contraction modes (p > .05). During standing position, greater concentric total work was observed (p = .013). This position resulted in a lower activity of the tensor fascia lata muscle (p = .005) compared to side lying position. Myoelectric activity of gluteus medius, and inferior and superior portions of the gluteus maximus was similar between positions (p > .05). ConclusionBoth positions presented similar peak torque values and, during the standing position, a greater concentric total work and lesser activation of the tensor fascia lata was observed. Standing position can be used when emphasis on the superior portion of gluteus maximus over the tensor fascia lata is intended.

Interrater and Intrarater Reliability of the EasyForce Dynamometer for Assessment of Maximal Shoulder, Knee and Hip Strength.

This study aimed to determine the interrater and intrarater reliability of EasyForce dynamometer for assessing shoulder, knee, and hip muscle strength in healthy young adults. Shoulder, knee, and hip maximal isometric strength were measured using the EasyForce in healthy adults (11 women and 12 men). Three repetitions of shoulder internal rotation, abduction, knee flexion, extension, and hip abduction and adduction were performed. The tests were performed by three raters on the same day. The results showed good to high inter- and intrarater reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient range: 0.63–0.91). Moreover, the absolute reliability of the EasyForce was slightly higher than acceptable for all tests (CV > 10%) except for hip abduction on the right leg (CV = 7.2%). The EasyForce dynamometer can be considered a reliable tool for assessing shoulder internal rotation and abduction, knee extension and flexion, as well as hip abduction and adduction strength. The EasyForce dynamometer showed no differences between the raters’ measurements, which could be of great importance for professionals who want to perform the tests regardless of their strength on the values.

Residual and sound limb hip strength distinguish between sedentary and nonsedentary adults with transtibial amputation.

Following a transtibial amputation (TTA), physical activity has known benefits for health and quality of life. Adults post-TTA, however, demonstrate reduced physical activity, predisposing them to adverse health outcomes. Identifying adults at the risk of sedentarism post-TTA via commonly used, objective clinical measures may enhance clinical decisions, including prosthesis prescription. The study's purpose was to determine whether residual and sound limb hip strength distinguishes between sedentary and nonsedentary adults post-TTA. A secondary analysis of a cross-sectional dataset (n = 44) was conducted. Participant residual and sound limb hip flexion, extension, abduction and adduction strength were assessed via handheld dynamometry. Physical activity was monitored for 7 days and participants were classified as sedentary (<5000 steps/day; n = 13) or nonsedentary (≥5000 steps/day; n = 31). Receiver operating curves revealed that residual and sound limb hip extension, abduction and adduction strength distinguished between sedentary and nonsedentary adults post-TTA (P < 0.050). Preliminary cut-points for hip strength measures to classify adults at the risk of sedentarism were determined. A hip strength composite score (0-6) estimates a 2.2× increased odds of being sedentary with each additional hip strength deficit. Post-TTA, residual and sound limb hip strength can help identify adults at risk of sedentarism to aid clinical decision making, including prosthesis prescription.