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Effect of Core Stability Training on Hip Adduction Abduction Strength Ratio in Young Gymnasts With Adductor Strain: A Randomized Controlled Trial
In Brief
A clinical study evaluating core stability training + traditional physio therapy for study group and traditional physiotherapy for control group for Groin Pain and Adductor Muscle Strain. Completed, enrolled 36 participants across 1 site.
Detailed Summary
Adductor muscle strain is a common cause of groin pain in young athletes, particularly in gymnasts who frequently perform movements that require extreme hip flexibility and strength. Muscle imbalance around the hip joint and reduced core stability may increase the risk of adductor injuries. This randomized clinical trial aims to investigate the effect of adding core stability training to a traditional physiotherapy rehabilitation program on the hip adduction-abduction strength ratio in young gymnasts with adductor muscle strain. Thirty-six young gymnasts aged 7-10 years with Grade I or II adductor strain will be randomly assigned to two groups. Both groups will receive a traditional physiotherapy rehabilitation program for eight weeks, while the study group will also perform additional core stability exercises. Outcomes will include hip adductor and abductor strength measured using a hand-held dynamometer, pain intensity assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and hip and groin function evaluated using the Copenhagen Hip and Groin Outcome Score (HAGOS). The findings of this study may help determine whether adding core stability training improves rehabilitation outcomes in young gymnasts with adductor muscle strain.
Study Details
Timeline
Interventions
Core stability training (CST) was implemented to improve trunk control and lumbopelvic stability in young gymnasts with adductor muscle strain. The program was performed three times per week for eight consecutive weeks and was provided in addition to the traditional physiotherapy program. Each session included approximately 30 minutes of CST exercises focusing on neuromuscular control of the trunk and pelvis. The training protocol consisted of progressive exercises including abdominal hollowing, abdominal bracing, dissociation of the shoulder and pelvic girdles, cat-camel exercise, quadruped stance, front bridge, side bridge (both sides), and supine bridge. The program was delivered in three progressive phases with gradual increases in training difficulty to enhance trunk muscle activation, improve lumbopelvic stability, and optimize force transmission through the kinetic chain during lower limb movements.
The traditional physiotherapy program was designed for the rehabilitation of adductor muscle strain and was conducted three times per week for eight weeks, with each session lasting approximately 70 minutes. The program included a 10-minute warm-up using a cycle ergometer followed by pain-free strengthening exercises targeting hip flexion, extension, abduction, and adduction performed in side-lying and standing positions. Isometric adductor strengthening exercises were performed in the supine position using a small roll placed between the knees or feet. Balance and proprioceptive training were incorporated using balance boards and functional tasks. Stretching exercises for the hamstrings, gluteal muscles, hip flexors, and iliotibial band were performed during the cool-down period. In addition, low-level laser therapy was applied for 10 minutes over the symptomatic adductor tendon insertion sites to reduce pain and local tenderness.