Hip Adduction Range Of Motion Research Articles

Comparing the Effects of the Postural Restoration Exercises with and without Core Stability Exercises in Patients with Non-Specific Chronic Low Back Pain

Introduction: This study compares the effect of postural restoration (PR) exercises with and without core stability exercises on the pain, intensity, function, quality of life (QoL), and passive range of motion (PROM) at lumbo pelvic-femoral complex in patients with nonspecific chronic low back pain.
 Materials and Methods: This was an interventional type of randomized clinical trial study. The participants were 45 female patients (48.1±6.11 years, 161.4±5.06 cm height, 65.08±6.9 kg weight, and 24.9±2.8 body mass index). They were randomly divided into three equal groups: Group 1=PR exercises and core exercises, group 2=PR exercises, and group 3=control group. Pain intensity, function, QoL, and PROM were measured with the visual analog scale, Oswestry disability index, short form-36 questionnaire, and goniometer. The analysis of covariance was used to compare the means in the study groups before and after the intervention. The intervention groups performed the exercises for six weeks.
 Results: The results showed a significant difference between the QoL, pain intensity, function, and PROM of left hip adduction in the group with PR exercises with and without core exercises and control (P=0.000). In the PR group with core exercises (P=0.001) and without core exercises (P=0.001), a significant increase was observed in the adduction of the left hip. There was no significant difference between the function (P=0.850), pain (P=0.120), QoL (P=0.328), and PROM (P=0.094) in the intervention groups.
 Conclusion: PR exercises with and without core stability are equally effective in reducing pain and improving function, QoL, and hip adduction range of motion in women with left anterior interior chain patterns.

Comparison of the Immediate Effect of Active Stretching Techniques and Self-myofascial Release on the Flexibility of the Iliotibial Band and Functional Activities in Semi-Elite Athletes: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Background: The iliotibial band (ITB) is prone to shortening in sports activities. Correcting the lack of flexibility can be a factor in improving the overall biomechanics of the body and preventing future injuries. Methods: A total of 51 semi-elite athletes (age range: 20 - 40 years) with ITB shortness confirmed by the modified Ober’s test participated in this study. The participants were randomly divided into three groups, including foam roller, proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) active stretching, and a combination of foam roller and PNF stretching. Results: The mean of the active hip adduction range of motion (ROM), single-leg hop test, lateral hop test, and vertical jump in all three groups increased significantly after the intervention compared to before (P < 0.05). All three studied groups had similar changes over time, and no group was superior to the others. Conclusions: Using a foam roller, PNF active stretching technique, and a combination of both can improve hip ROM in patients with ITB shortness. As a result, the functional activities of athletes, including vertical jump, lateral hop, and single-leg hop, can be improved. Flexibility and ROM increased significantly in all three treatment groups. There is no priority between different interventions.

Effects of Contralateral Hip Flexion Angle on the Ober Test.

The Ober test is an orthopedic evaluation procedure used to assess for tightness of the tensor fascia latae (TFL) and iliotibial band (ITB). Multiple versions of this test have been described using different degrees of contralateral hip joint flexion to stabilize the pelvis. The aim of this study was to analyze the hip range of motion (ROM) in the frontal plane and perceived tension produced during the Ober test using four different angles of contralateral hip flexion prepositioning. The secondary objective was to analyze the differences in the Ober test with different contralateral hip flexion angles according to limb dominance. This cross-sectional study included healthy individuals aged 18 years or older. The Ober test was performed on the right and left leg of each participant with the contralateral hip joint stabilized at 0° flexion, 45° flexion, 90° flexion, and maximal flexion. Hip range of motion in the frontal plane (abduction or adduction) was measured using a digital inclinometer. Three measurements were performed on each limb for every angle of contralateral prepositioning, using the average of the three measurements for statistical analysis. Participants were asked to report the location of any perceived tension and the intensity of tension using a Numeric Rating Scale during the test. Twenty-eight participants (17 men and 11 women) were examined. Significant differences in the Ober test hip ROM in the frontal plane (p < 0.01) were observed when comparing different angles of contralateral hip flexion prepositioning. Significant differences between tests were also present for intensity of perceived tension (p ≤ 0.001), except for the intensity of perceived tension between 0° and 45°. No statistically significant differences were observed related to limb dominance (p > 0.05) or gender (p > 0.05), except for the Ober test at 0° (p < 0.001) which was higher in men (9.61° ± 5.01°) than in women (5.05° ± 2.87°). Greater contralateral hip flexion prepositioning during the Ober test results in decreased hip adduction ROM in the tested limb and greater perceived tension in the region of tensor fascia latae-iliotibial band.

Effect of Active Stretching and Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization on the Hip Joint Range of Motion and Stiffness of the Tensor Fascia Lata in Subjects with Shortened Tensor Fascia Lata

Background Various therapeutic methods have been suggested to increase the flexibility of shortened muscles in patients with knee pain. However, no previous study has directly compared the hip joint range of motion (ROM) and muscle stiffness as a mechanical property following the active stretching (AS) and instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) for shortened tensor fascia lata (TFL). Purpose To compare the effects of AS and IASTM on hip joint ROM and TFL stiffness in subjects with shortened TFL. Study design Two groups pre- and post-test design Methods Twenty healthy male subjects with shortened TFL were selected. The subjects were randomized between the AS group (n=10) and the IASTM group (n=10). A smartphone was used to measure the hip joint adduction ROM and Myoton was used to measure the TFL stiffness. Paired <italic>t</italic>-test was performed to analyze the within-group variation before and after the intervention, and an independent <italic>t</italic>-test was used to compare the between-group variation. Results In the within-group comparison, both the AS and IASTM groups showed a significant increase in the hip joint adduction ROM after the intervention, whereas neither group showed a significant difference in the TFL stiffness after the intervention. In the between-group comparison, a greater increase in the hip joint adduction ROM was observed for the AS group compared to the IASTM group. Conclusions This study found that the hip adduction ROM of the subjects with TFL shortness increased immediately in both AS group and IASTM group, although the TFL stiffness was not decreased. And the greater increase of the hip adduction ROM was revealed in AS group than IASTM group.

Effects of Instrumented Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) Technique Versus Stretching on Ililotibal Band in Patients with Anterior Knee Pain

Background: Anterior knee pain is caused by many factors iliotibial band tightness is one of cause of knee pain. The repeated hip abduction or postural imbalance usually results in contracture and tightness of the iliotibial band. Soft tissue mobilization is hypothesized as one of effective treatment. Instrumented assisted soft tissue (IASTM) technique is a soft tissue mobilizing technique and have remarked effects. Objective: This study's objective was to assess how well IASTM improved hip adduction range of motion (ROM). Methodology: This study was quasi experimental trial. And duration for this study was 6 month after the approval of synopsis. Sample of total 46 with knee pain was recruited in two groups. Non- probability convenience sampling technique was used. Total sample size was 30(15 each group). Subjects were allocated into 02 Groups. Inclusion criteria were Age 25 to 50 years and patients with Anterior Knee Pain, Patients of both genders. One group received IASTM and other group received self stretching for flexor group. Outcome was measured on NPRS, goiniomere and lower extremity function scale (LEFS) and values were be taken at baseline and after one week of treatment and then at third week of treatment. The data was analyses using SPSS v 25. Results: The results shows no significant improvement in pain, LEFS and hip abduction range between both groups comparison but both treatments IASTM and stretching exercises shows significant results within each group.The individuals in the GT group showed better hip abduction strength after three treatment sessions. Furthermore, after the one-month follow up, the gain in strength persisted. HoweverThere was no significant difference statistically in hip adduction ROM or VAS scores for pain and function between both the control group and graston (GT) group. Practical application :This study is going to help physical therapist and instrumented assisted soft tissue mobilization practitioners that how Graston technique and stretching effective in terms of decreasing pain, improving flexibility and lower extremity functions in patient with illiotibal band tightness having anterior knee pain. Conclusion: IASTM technique and stretching was equally effective in terms of decreasing pain, improving flexibility and lower extremity functions in patient with illiotibal band tightness having anterior knee pain. Keywords: instrumented assisted soft tissue mobilization, iliotibial band, ant knee pain, soft tissue mobilization.

Are Altered Kinematics in Runners With Patellofemoral Pain Sex Specific?

Altered kinematics have been frequently observed in runners with patellofemoral pain (PFP), and few studies have aimed to understand the influence of sex on kinematics of this population. The aim of this study was to investigate whether altered hip and knee kinematics in runners with PFP are sex specific. Kinematics will be different between female and male runners with and without PFP. Case-control study. Level 2. Eighty-four runners were divided into 4 groups: 42 runners with PFP (20 women, 22 men) and 42 asymptomatic runners (21 women, 21 men). Three-dimensional gait analyses of the hip in the frontal and transverse plane and the knee in the frontal plane were analyzed at self-selected running speed on a treadmill. One-way analysis of covariance was used to test for differences in kinematic variables between groups. Women with PFP ran with a significantly greater peak hip adduction compared with men with PFP (mean difference [MD] = 4.45°; P = 0.00; effect size [ES] = 0.58) and male control subjects (MD = 4.2°; P = 0.01; ES = 0.54) and greater hip adduction range of motion (ROM) than men with PFP (MD = 3.44°; P = 0.01; ES = 0.49). No significant differences were identified between women with and without PFP. Female control subjects ran with greater peak hip adduction than men with PFP (MD = 5.46°; P < 0.01; ES = 0.58) and male control subjects (MD = 5.21°; P < 0.01; ES = 0.55); greater hip adduction ROM than men with PFP (MD = 4.02°; P = 0.00; ES = 0.52) and male control subjects (MD = 2.91°;P = 0.04; ES = 0.36); and greater peak knee abduction than men with PFP (MD = 3.35°; P = 0.02; ES = 0.44) and male control subjects (MD = 3.69°; P = 0.01; ES = 0.4). Women have greater hip adduction than men regardless of the presence of PFP. There were no kinematics difference between women with and without PFP. Comparisons of hip internal rotation between all groups were nonsignificant. Altered hip and knee kinematics does not appear to be sex specific in runners with PFP.

The influence of maturation and sex on pelvis and hip kinematics in youth distance runners

ObjectivesThis study aimed to investigate differences in stance phase pelvic and hip running kinematics based on maturation and sex among healthy youth distance runners. DesignCross-Sectional. Methods133 uninjured youth distance runners (M = 60, F = 73; age = 13.5 ± 2.7 years) underwent a three-dimensional running analysis on a treadmill at a self-selected speed (2.8 ± 0.6 m·s−1). Participants were stratified as pre-pubertal, mid-pubertal, or post-pubertal according to the modified Pubertal Maturational Observation Scale. Stance phase pelvis and hip range of motion (RoM) and peak joint positions were extracted. Two-way ANCOVAs (sex, maturation; covariate of running velocity) were used with Bonferroni-Holm method to control for multiple comparisons with a target alpha level of 0.05. ResultsA two-way interaction between sex and maturation was detected (p = 0.009) for frontal plane pelvic obliquity RoM. Post-hoc analysis identified a maturation main effect only among females (p˂0.008). Pelvic obliquity RoM was significantly greater among post-pubertal (p = 0.001) compared to pre-pubertal females. Significant main effects of sex (p = 0.02), and maturation (p = 0.01) were found for hip adduction RoM. Post-hoc analysis indicated a significant increase in hip adduction RoM from pre-pubertal to post-pubertal female runners (p = 0.001). A significant main effect of sex was found for peak hip adduction angle (p = 0.001) with female runners exhibiting greater maximum peak hip adduction compared to males. ConclusionsMaturation influences pelvic and hip kinematics greater in female than male runners. Sex differences became more pronounced during later stages of puberty. These differences may correspond to an increased risk for running-related injuries in female runners compared to male runners.

Time Course of Acute Hip Adduction Range of Motion Changes Following Foam Rolling.

BackgroundWith the increased popularity of foam rolling (FR), it is important to establish the exact manner in which the practice is useful.PurposeThe purpose of this study was to examine the impact of FR the iliotibial (IT) band on hip adduction range of motion (ROM) and the short-term time course of any ROM changes that may occur.MethodIn a within-subject design, 34 subjects (21 female, 13 male) (female mean age 24.67 ± 8.6 yrs, height 161.4 ± 9.8 cm, mass 67.3 ± 12.3 kg; male mean age 22 ± 2.5 yrs, height 170.2 ± 8.2 cm, mass 76.3 ± 21.9 kg) underwent a baseline Ober’s test to measure hip adduction ROM prior to the FR and control conditions. Subjects rolled the lateral portion of each thigh for 3 bouts of 20 seconds. A tempo of 3 seconds down and 3 seconds up the leg was maintained across FR bouts. A 5-minute walk served as the control condition. The Ober’s test was repeated at less than 1 minute, 3 minutes, 10 minutes, 15 minutes, and 20 minutes following the FR bouts and the control to assess changes in hip adduction ROM over time. A blinded clinician conducted the Ober’s test. A two-way analysis of variance was used to assess differences by condition and time.ResultsNo differences in hip adduction ROM were found at baseline between FR and CON within subjects (27.9 cm ± 7.5 vs. 27.7 cm ± 6.6, p > .05). Ober’s test ROM was significantly greater in FR compared to CON immediately post-treatment (24.2 cm ± 6.3 vs. 28.2 cm ± 6.3, p = .00, d = .59), and 3 minutes post (24.6 cm ± 7.6 vs. 28.3 cm ± 5.9, p = .00, d = .56). No differences were observed 10 minutes post, 15 minutes post, or 20 minutes post FR or CON (p > .05).DiscussionCompared to walking, FR the IT band significantly increased hip adduction ROM as measured by the Ober’s test. These increases appear to dissipate between 3 and 10 minutes post-FR.ConclusionAn acute bout of 3 sets of 20 seconds of FR may be effective for transiently increasing ROM. Whether these short-term increases have implications for chronic flexibility changes is unclear.Level of evidence2

THE CONSTRAINING EFFECT OF THE LATERAL FEMORAL INTERMUSCULAR SEPTUM ON PASSIVE HIP ADDUCTION IN UN-EMBALMED CADAVERS

Due to the lack of verifiable iliotibial band elongation in response to stretching, the anatomical, biomechanical, and physiological responses to treatment of iliotibial band syndrome remain unclear. The lateral intermuscular septum, consisting of multiple myofibroblasts, firmly anchors the iliotibial band to the femur. The purpose of this in-situ study was to examine the constraining effect of the lateral intermuscular septum on available passive hip adduction range of motion in un-embalmed cadavers. It was hypothesized that an iliotibial band-septum-complex release would significantly increase passive hip adduction. Within-specimen repeated measures in-situ design. Anatomy laboratory. Metal markers were inserted into selected anatomical landmarks in eleven (11) un-embalmed human cadavers. With the specimen supine, the test-side lower limb was passively adducted until maximum passive hip adduction was reached. This movement was repeated three times each within two conditions: (1) band-septum-complex intact and (2) band-septum-complex dissected. Digital video of marker displacement was captured throughout each trial. Still images from a start and an end position were extracted from each video sequence. A custom Matlab program was used to calculate frontal plane hip adduction angle changes from obtained images. Mean change in passive hip adduction after band-septum-complex release was -0.3 ° (SD 1.6 °;95% CI: -1.33,0.76). A paired samples t-test revealed a non-significant difference (t=-.611; p=.555) in passive hip adduction for the band-septum-dissected condition (18.8 ± 3.9 °) versus the band-septum-intact condition (18.5 °±4.7 °). The lateral intermuscular septum does not appear to have a constraining effect on passive hip adduction in un-embalmed cadavers. Future research should evaluate the constraining effect of other selected tissues and conditions on hip adduction. Furthermore, inflammatory, metabolic, viscoelastic, and sensorimotor control properties within the iliotibial band in response to stretching should be investigated. 3.

Effects of the Ergon® instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization technique (IASTM), foam rolling, and static stretching application to different parts of the myofascial lateral line on hip joint flexibility.

[Purpose] This study was aimed to compare the effects of three soft tissue treatments in different parts of the myofascial lateral line (LL) on the hip adduction range of motion (ROM). [Participants and Methods] Thirty university students received Ergon® instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) treatment, foam rolling, and static stretching on the upper or lower part of the LL on the side of their non-dominant lower limb, while the other body side served as control. The participants received one treatment per week for six weeks with a simultaneous pre-and post-therapy assessment of their hip adduction ROM. [Results] The hip adduction ROM was improved on the intervention side in all experimental groups. The gains were more significant in groups that received the Ergon treatment. All Ergon interventions, as well as foam rolling on the upper part of the LL, led to the greatest hip adduction ROM improvement compared to the control side. No differences were observed between the Ergon groups. [Conclusion] The findings suggest that the implementation of Ergon IASTM, foam rolling, and stretching can produce positive effects on the hip ROM. The Ergon Technique is more effective compared to foam rolling and stretching, irrespective of the application site.

The immediate and long-term effects of negative pressure soft tissue mobilization on the iliotibial bands of runners using magnetic resonance imaging

Introduction: Myofascial decompression (MFD) is a soft tissue mobilization technique in which negative pressure is applied to soft tissues through active range of motion (ROM). Overuse injuries, such as iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS), result in compression and irritation of lateral knee structures commonly seen in runners (Nemeth & Sanders 1996). The purpose of this study is to quantify the effects of MFD using MR imaging (MRI) to compare tissue changes with clinical measures for addressing ITBS. We hypothesize that immediately and 72 hours after application the space between the tissue layers will increase with MFD. Clinically, subjective pain, hip adduction ROM, and functional single leg squat (SLS) will be improved.

THE EFFECTS OF AN ACUTE BOUT OF FOAM ROLLING ON HIP RANGE OF MOTION ON DIFFERENT TISSUES

Foam Rolling (FR) has steadily gained in popularity as an intervention to increase range of motion (ROM) and reduce pain. It is believed that FR can remove restrictions due to fascial adhesions, thus improving ROM. FR has been proposed as a means to increase ITB length as a means to achieve these outcomes. Previous research has focused on the effects of FR over both muscle and fascia tissue together. However, no studies have examined the effects of FR over fascial tissue not containing muscle. The purpose of this study was to compare the acute effect of a single bout of foam rolling (FR) over the Iliotibial Band (ITB) compared to FR over the gluteal muscle group on hip adduction passive range of motion (PROM). Twenty-seven participants were recruited for the study. Each participant performed three sessions: FR over tissue devoid of muscle, the ITB (PFR), FR over contractile tissue, the gluteal muscles (AFR), and a session without FR (control) in a randomized order. Hip adduction PROM was measured in a pre-post manner for each session. Results of the repeated measures ANOVA showed a significant interaction across session and time (F(2, 25) = 25.202, p < 0.001, = 0.502, 1 - β = 1.000). Post-hoc analysis showed the AFR post-test measure was significantly different from both control (p < 0.001) and PFR counterparts (p < 0.001). FR over the gluteal muscle group lead to a 14.8% improvement in hip adduction ROM, with PFR only a 2% improvement. A single bout of FR over a myofascial group appears to increase PROM in healthy young adults, whereas FR over the ITB itself (primarily fascial tissue) does not. This suggests the conventional theory behind FR may need to be reevaluated. Level 1B, laboratory study, repeated measures design.

The association between loss of ankle dorsiflexion range of movement, and hip adduction and internal rotation during a step down test

A pattern of excessive hip adduction and internal rotation with medial deviation of the knee has been associated with numerous musculo-skeletal dysfunctions. Research into the role that ankle dorsiflexion (DF) range of motion (ROM) play in lower limb kinematics is lacking. The objective of this cross-sectional, observational study was to investigate the relationship between ankle DF ROM, and hip adduction and hip internal rotation during a step-down test with and without heel elevation in a healthy female population. Hip and ankle ROM was measured kinematically using a ten-camera Optitrack motion analysis system. Thirty healthy female participants (mean age = 20.4 years; SD = 0.9 years) first performed a step-down test with the heel of the weight bearing foot flat on the step and then with the heel elevated on a platform. Ankle DF, hip adduction and hip internal rotation were measured kinematically for the supporting leg. Participants who had 17° or less of ankle DF ROM displayed significantly more hip adduction ROM (p = 0.001; Cohen's d effect size = 1.2) than the participants with more than 17° of DF during the step-down test. Participants with limited DF ROM showed a significant reduction in hip adduction ROM during the elevated-heel step-down test (p = 0.008). Hip internal rotation increased in both groups during the EHSD compared to the step-down test (p > 0.05) Reduced ankle DF ROM is associated with increased hip adduction utilised during the step-down test. Ankle DF should be taken into account when assessing patients with aberrant frontal plane lower limb alignment.

Relationship between functional capacity, joint mobility and pulmonary function in patients with systemic sclerosis

In systemic sclerosis (SS), pulmonary involvement is currently the leading cause of mortality. Joint impairments limit the range of motion (ROM), which may reduce the functional capacity of these patients. To assess the correlation between the functional capacity, joints mobility, and pulmonary function parameters in adults with SS. This was a cross-sectional study including ten SS patients who underwent goniometry, spirometry, carbon monoxide diffusing capacity (DLco) assessment, and the 6-min walk distance (6 MWD). Significant correlations were found between the 6 MWD and the tibiotarsal plantarflexion ROM (r = 0.65; P < 0.01), tibiotarsal dorsiflexion ROM (r = 0.64; P < 0.01), and hip adduction ROM (0.52; P < 0.05). Significant correlation was also observed between the 6 MWD and DLco (r = 0.61; P < 0.01). Although the 6 MWD can be influenced by cardiovascular and pulmonary impairments in SS, our results suggest that the musculoskeletal dysfunction play an important role in the functional capacity of these patients.

Musculoskeletal Predictors of Movement Quality for the Forward Step-down Test in Asymptomatic Women

Cross-sectional. To investigate the interrater reliability of movement-quality ratings for the forward step-down (FSD) test and to compare hip muscle strength and lower extremity joint range of motion and muscle flexibility among asymptomatic women with different levels of movement quality. The interrater reliability of the FSD test has not yet been investigated. Additionally, it is not known whether differences in musculoskeletal measures exist among individuals with different levels of movement quality during the FSD test. Two physical therapists assessed movement quality during the FSD test in 26 asymptomatic women (mean ± SD age, 22.7 ± 0.9 years). Hip muscle strength and lower extremity joint range of motion and muscle flexibility were also assessed. The interrater reliability of the FSD test was estimated by using the kappa coefficient and percent agreement. Differences in musculoskeletal measures based on movement quality were assessed by independent t tests. The kappa coefficient and percent agreement for rating the quality of movement on the FSD test were 0.80 (95% confidence interval: 0.57, 1.00) and 85%, respectively. The subjects with moderate movement quality had significantly less strength of the hip abductors, less knee flexion range of motion measured in prone (quadriceps flexibility), and less hip adduction range of motion measured in sidelying (iliotibial band/tensor fascia latae flexibility) compared to those with good movement quality. There was good agreement for the rating of movement quality during the FSD test, and there were physical attributes that distinguished those with moderate from those with good quality of movement.

The relationship between rearfoot, tibial and hip kinematics in individuals with patellofemoral pain syndrome

BackgroundExcessive rearfoot eversion is thought to be a risk factor for patellofemoral pain syndrome development, based on theoretical rationale linking it to greater tibial internal rotation and hip adduction. This study aimed to establish the relationship of rearfoot eversion with tibial internal rotation and hip adduction during walking in individuals with and without patellofemoral pain syndrome. MethodsTwenty-six individuals with patellofemoral pain syndrome and 20 controls (18–35years) participated. Each underwent instrumented three-dimensional motion analysis during over-ground walking. Pearson's correlation coefficients (r) were calculated to establish the relationship of rearfoot eversion with tibial internal rotation and hip adduction (peak and range of motion). FindingsGreater peak rearfoot eversion was associated with greater peak tibial internal rotation in the patellofemoral pain syndrome group (r=0.394, P=0.046). Greater rearfoot eversion range of motion was associated with greater hip adduction range of motion in the patellofemoral pain syndrome (r=0.573, P=0.002) and control (r=0.460, P=0.041) groups; and greater peak hip adduction in the control group (r=0.477, P=0.033). InterpretationAssociations between greater rearfoot eversion and greater hip adduction indicate that interventions targeted at the foot or hip in individuals with patellofemoral pain syndrome may have similar overall effects on lower limb motion and clinical outcomes. The relationship between rearfoot eversion and tibial internal rotation identified in the patellofemoral pain syndrome group may be related to aetiology. However, additional prospective research is needed to confirm this.

Resistance training is accompanied by increases in hip strength and changes in lower extremity biomechanics during running

Background Movement and muscle activity of the hip have been shown to affect movement of the lower extremity, and been related to injury. The purpose of this study was to determine if increased hip strength affects lower extremity mechanics during running. Methods Within subject, repeated measures design. Fifteen healthy women volunteered. Hip abduction and external rotation strength were measured using a hand-held dynamometer. Three-dimensional biomechanical data of the lower extremity were collected during running using a high-speed motion capture system. Measurements were made before, at the mid-point, and after a 6-week strengthening program using closed-chain hip rotation exercises. Joint range of motion (rearfoot eversion, knee abduction, hip adduction, and internal rotation), eversion velocity, eversion angle at heel strike, and peak joint moments (rearfoot inversion, knee abduction, hip abduction, and external rotation) were analyzed using repeated measures analysis of variance ( P ⩽ 0.05). The independent variable was time (pre-, week 3, and week 6). A separate analysis of variance was conducted with the dependent variables of peak hip abduction and external rotation strength. Findings Hip abduction ( P = 0.009) and external rotation strength ( P < 0.0005) increased by 13% and 23%, respectively. Eversion range of motion decreased ( P = 0.05), hip adduction range of motion increased ( P = 0.05), and a trend of decreased hip internal rotation range of motion ( P = 0.08) were found. Rearfoot inversion moment ( P = 0.02) and knee abduction moment ( P = 0.05) decreased by 57% and 10%, respectively. Interpretation The hip abductors and external rotators were strengthened, leading to an alteration of lower extremity joint loading which may reduce injury risk. These exercises could be used in the rehabilitation, or prevention, of lower extremity injuries.

Use of an inclinometer to measure flexibility of the iliotibial band using the Ober test and the modified Ober test: differences in magnitude and reliability of measurements.

Test-retest design to evaluate the reliability of the measurement of iliotibial (IT) band flexibility using an inclinometer to measure the hip adduction angle. The primary objective was to determine the intrarater reliability of the Ober test and the modified Ober test for the assessment of IT band flexibility using an inclinometer to measure the hip adduction angle. A secondary objective was to determine if a difference existed between the measurements of IT band flexibility between the Ober and modified Ober test. The Ober test and the modified Ober test are frequently used for the measurement of IT band flexibility. To date, data documenting the objective measurement of flexibility of the IT band is scarce in the literature. Sixty-one subjects, with a mean age of 24.2 (SD = 4.3) years, were measured during 2 measurement sessions over 2 consecutive days. During each measurement session, subjects were positioned on their left side and, with an inclinometer at the lateral epicondyle of the femur, hip adduction was measured during the Ober test (knee at 90 degrees of flexion) and the modified Ober test (knee extended). If the limb was horizontal, it was considered to be at 0 degrees, if below horizontal (adducted), it was recorded as a positive number, and if above horizontal (abducted), it was recorded as a negative number. The ICC values calculated for the intrarater reliability of the repeated measurement were 0.90 for the Ober test and 0.91 for the modified Ober test. Results of the dependent t test indicated a significantly greater range of motion of the hip in adduction using the modified Ober test as compared to the Ober test. The use of an inclinometer to measure hip adduction using both the Ober test and the modified Ober test appears to be a reliable method for the measurement of IT band flexibility, and the technique is quite easy to use. However, given that the modified Ober test allows significantly greater hip adduction range of motion than the Ober test, the 2 examination procedures should not be used interchangeably for the measurement of the flexibility of the IT band.