Groin Problems in Male Soccer Players Are More Common Than Previously Reported

Groin injury risk of pubertal soccer players increases during peak height velocity due to changes in movement techniques

Adolescent athletes experience an increase in injury incidence when they undergo peak height velocity (PHV). To find the reason behind this increase, the present study investigated if PHV influences hip joint kinematics, kinetics and adductor muscle forces in two groups of adolescent soccer players performing 90^°-cutting manoeuvres and inside passing. One group was estimated to be more than half a year before PHV (PRE, N = 12). The second group was estimated to be less than half a year before or after PHV (MID, N = 10). Maximum static gripping and adductor forces were measured. Motion capturing and inverse dynamics were used to calculate kinematics and kinetics. The MID group was significantly taller and heavier compared to PRE while the force measurements showed no differences. Statistics showed a higher hip abduction moment for MID during the cutting manoeuvre. Results from the anthropometrics and force measurements suggest that the moments of inertia of the participants' extremities increase faster than the muscles can adapt. A higher abduction moment of MID likely increases the load on the adductor muscles through a change of technique. Combining both findings, it is likely that the risk of suffering a groin injury is increased in the MID group.

Adductor Muscles Strength and Strength Asymmetry as Risk Factors for Groin Injuries among Professional Soccer Players: A Prospective Study

The aim of this study was to prospectively examine the association between isometric hip adductor strength and between-limb strength asymmetry to groin injuries in male professional soccer players. Isometric hip adductor strength and between-limb strength asymmetry of 45 professional outfield soccer players from three First Division teams were tested during the 2017/2018 preseason. Players were then monitored throughout the 2017/2018 season for groin injuries. Ten groin injuries were recorded. When compared with uninjured players, players who sustained groin injury had significantly lower strength of respective muscle groups and significantly higher between-limb strength asymmetries (all p < 0.05; ES = 1.16 and 0.88; mean % difference = 26% and 51%). Isometric hip adductor strength had a significant inverse relationship with the incidence of occurring groin injuries (p = 0.016). No significant relationship between hip adductor strength asymmetry and the incidence of future groin injury was observed (p = 0.09). Finally, players' age and previous groin injury were not significantly associated with the incidence of future groin injuries (all p > 0.05). These results generally suggest that isometric adductor strength is a significant predictor of future groin injuries in men's professional football; however, due to the relatively low sample size, further studies are required.

Internal and External Workload in Youth Basketball Players Who Are Symptomatic and Asymptomatic for Patellar Tendinopathy

OBJECTIVE

To examine the differences in external and internal workload in players with and without patellar tendinopathy.

DESIGN

Nested case-control study.

METHODS

Workload was monitored in 152 players (aged 13-18 years) for a 1-week period, including all practices, games, and conditioning sessions. Players were prescreened into patellar tendinopathy cases and controls without patellar tendinopathy, using the previously validated Oslo Sports Trauma Research Center-patellar tendinopathy questionnaire. Simple linear regression analysis, with adjustment for clustering by team and Bonferroni correction, was used to examine mean differences in measures of external workload (cumulative jump counts and sessions completed) and internal workload (session rating of perceived exertion in arbitrary units) between cases and controls.

RESULTS

A total of 144 players (19 cases, 125 controls) met the inclusion criteria for final analysis. No significant differences were found between players with patellar tendinopathy and those without patellar tendinopathy in the 3 outcomes: jump count (mean difference, 45 jumps; 98.3% confidence interval [CI]: -41, 130; P = .177), basketball sessions completed (mean difference, 0.9; 98.3% CI: -0.3, 2.2; P = .067), and session rating of perceived exertion (mean difference, 346 arbitrary units; 98.3% CI: -459, 1151; P = .260).

CONCLUSION

In the current study, a significant difference in workload was not detected between youth basketball players with patellar tendinopathy and players without patellar tendinopathy. Efforts toward identifying players at early stages of patellar tendinopathy and applying relevant interventions are warranted. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2020;50(7):402-408. Epub 6 Sep 2019. doi:10.2519/jospt.2020.9094.

Prevalence of Hip or Groin Pain in Adolescents: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Musculoskeletal pain is a common cause of pain in adolescence and can be an important predictor of future pain. The prevalence of hip or groin pain that could potentially affect different adolescent populations has not yet been systematically reviewed. This systematic review aimed to determine the prevalence of hip or groin pain in this population. Five electronic databases were searched until January 2019 for eligible studies that included males and females 13 to 19 years of age. Study selection, data extraction, and risk of bias assessments were completed by 2 independent researchers. Based on inclusion criteria, 8 population-based, 8 clinical, and 4 sports populations were included. Studies were conducted in Europe, North America, and Australia. The prevalence was dichotomized into "0 to 3 months" and "3 months and above." Meta-analyses were performed to estimate the prevalence from 0 to 3 months, and individual estimates were reported for studies of 3 months and above. The overall prevalence of hip or groin pain in all adolescents from 0 to 3 months was 12% (95% confidence interval [CI] 6%, 23%) based on 10 studies, and was 7% (95% CI 6%, 10%) based on 7 population studies. Caution should be applied to these estimates due to substantial study heterogeneity. The pain prevalence in cerebral palsy from 0 to 3 months based on 4 studies was 13% (95% CI 10%, 15%). Individual prevalence estimates were 6% and 31% in obese and 4% in hypermobility populations, respectively, and ranged from 6% to 100% in 4 sports studies. The validity of these estimates is compromised by poor methodological quality.

Improved reporting of overuse injuries and health problems in sport: an update of the Oslo Sport Trauma Research Center questionnaires

In 2013, the Oslo Sports Trauma Research Center Overuse Injury Questionnaire (OSTRC-O) was developed to record the magnitude, symptoms and consequences of overuse injuries in sport. Shortly afterwards, a modified version of the OSTRC-O was developed to capture all types of injuries and illnesses-The Oslo Sports Trauma Research Center Questionnaire on Health Problems (OSTRC-H). Since then, users from a range of research and clinical environments have identified areas in which these questionnaires may be improved. Therefore, the structure and content of the questionnaires was reviewed by an international panel consisting of the original developers, other user groups and experts in sports epidemiology and applied statistical methodology. Following a review panel meeting in October 2017, several changes were made to the questionnaires, including minor wording alterations, changes to the content of one question and the addition of questionnaire logic. In this paper, we present the updated versions of the questionnaires (OSTRC-O2 and OSTRC-H2), assess the likely impact of the updates on future data collection and discuss practical issues related to application of the questionnaires. We believe this update will improve respondent adherence and improve the quality of collected data.

Epidemiology of hip and groin injuries in Swedish male first football league

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate the incidence, pattern, and burden of hip/groin injuries in Swedish professional male football players over five consecutive seasons.

METHODS

Injury history from 16 football teams in the Swedish male first football league was evaluated during five consecutive seasons. The team's medical staff recorded team exposure and time-loss injuries prospectively between 2012 and 2016.

RESULTS

In total, 467 time-loss injuries located in the hip/groin area were recorded among 1,687 professional male football players, with an overall incidence and burden of 0.82/1,000 h and 15.6/1,000 h, respectively. There appeared to be an increased risk of hip/groin injuries during the last two seasons (2015-2016); however, the difference was not statistically significant (n.s). Recurrent injury rate was relatively low (14%), and overuse injuries accounted for the majority of injuries and absence days. Muscle injuries were the main injury type, while kicking and sprinting/running were the primary causes of injury. Goalkeepers had the lowest percentage of injuries and absence days.

CONCLUSION

Hip/groin injuries are a substantial problem in football, but does not seem to be an increasing phenomenon in the Swedish male first football league. Index and overuse injuries accounted for the majority of injuries and absence days. Thus, the focus should be on preventing hip/groin injuries to lower the injury rate. These new findings should be taken into consideration when designing and implementing preventive training interventions.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II.

High prevalence of hip and groin problems in professional ice hockey players, regardless of playing position

PURPOSE

The prevalence of hip and groin problems in professional male ice hockey is unknown and suspected to differ between playing positions. The purpose of this study was to explore potential differences in the seasonal prevalence of hip and groin problems between playing positions in male elite ice hockey players and to explore the relationship between symptom duration and hip and groin function at the beginning of the new season.

METHODS

Male ice hockey players [n = 329 (92 goalkeepers, 93 defensemen, 144 forwards), Mean age (SD): 24 (5)] from the professional leagues in Sweden responded to an online survey. The survey assessed presence of hip and groin problems (time loss and non-time loss) and symptom duration (categorized into 0, 1-6, or > 6 weeks) in the previous season, and current self-reported hip and groin function (Copenhagen Hip and Groin Outcome Score).

RESULTS

During the previous season, 175 players (53.2%) had experienced hip and groin problems. Non time loss problems were experienced by 158 (48%) and time loss problems were experienced by 97 (29.5%) players. No significant differences between playing positions were found. Self-reported function differed significantly between players with different symptom duration and more disability was reported among players with longer symptom duration (p ≤ 0.002).

CONCLUSION

Regardless of playing position, hip and groin problems were prevalent in male ice hockey players. Players with hip and groin problems during the previous season had significantly worse hip and groin function in the beginning of the new season, and longer symptom duration was associated with more disability.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Elite Ice Hockey Goalkeepers Have a High Prevalence of Hip and Groin Problems Associated With Decreased Sporting Function: A Single-Season Prospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

The modern style of goalkeeping in ice hockey is thought to predispose athletes to hip and groin problems. However, little is known about the magnitude of these problems in elite goalkeepers.

PURPOSE

To describe the incidence, prevalence, and severity of hip and groin problems in elite ice hockey goalkeepers over the course of a single season.

STUDY DESIGN

Descriptive epidemiology study.

METHODS

We invited all elite Swedish ice hockey goalkeepers (n = 128) to participate in this prospective cohort study. Every second week, players reported hip and groin problems experienced within the past 14 days on the Oslo Sports Trauma Research Center Overuse Injury Questionnaire (OSTRC-O), classifying problems into "all" and "substantial" hip and groin problems. Three times during the season (pre-, mid-, and end-season), players reported hip and groin function on the Hip and Groin Outcome Score (HAGOS) as well as on the OSTRC-O.

RESULTS

A total of 101 goalkeepers participated in the study (83.3% male [seniors, 44.1%; juniors, 39.2%], 16.7% female). The cumulative incidences of all hip and groin problems and substantial hip and groin problems were 69% (95% CI, 59%-79%) and 36% (95% CI, 26%-46%), respectively. The average biweekly prevalence for all hip and groin problems and substantial hip and groin problems was 28.1% (95% CI, 25.0%-31.3%) and 10% (95% CI, 8.7%-11.4%), respectively. Among all the reported hip and groin problems, 16.9% (n = 70) were acute, 83.1% (n = 343) were because of overuse, and 15.5% (n = 64) led to time loss. HAGOS did not differ in the pre-, mid-, or end-season. Players reporting hip and groin problems on the OSTRC-O had significantly worse HAGOS scores than players without problems (P < .01).

CONCLUSION

Hip and groin problems are highly prevalent in elite ice hockey goalkeepers. During a competitive season, 69% of players experienced hip and groin problems and 36% of players suffered from substantial problems. The vast majority of problems were because of overuse, not leading to time loss but related to reduced self-reported hip and groin function.

A prospective study of health problems at the 2018 17/U and 19/U Australian National Netball Championships with comparison of surveillance methodology

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the incidence, site, nature and cause of injuries sustained during and four weeks following the 2018 Australian National Netball Championships (ANNC's) using medical attention and self-report surveillance tools.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort study.

METHOD

Injuries were recorded prospectively using medical attention and self-report data collection methods. One hundred and ninety-two athletes competed at the 2018 ANNC's with 96 athletes in each age group (17/U & 19/U).

RESULTS

There were 103 medical attention injuries sustained by 80 athletes resulting in an incidence rate of 89.4 per 1000 player hours. The most frequently recorded medical attention injury diagnoses across both age groups were lateral ankle ligament sprain (n=14, 13.6%), foot blisters (n=11, 10.7%), and lumbar pain (n=10, 9.7%). Ankle sprains (n=4), anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) ruptures (n=3) and concussion (n=3) recorded as the highest sports incapacity injuries. The self-report data collection revealed that 46 (27.2%) athletes arrived at the tournament with an existing self-reported injury/illness and 57 (39.3%) athletes had a self-reported injury/illness at the conclusion of the ANNC (RR 1.44 95%CI 1.05-1.99, p=0.030).

CONCLUSION

There are no recent studies reporting injury rates specifically in pre-elite netball players. This study found an incidence rate of 89.4 per 1000 player hours. Ankle sprains are the highest medical attention and sports-incapacity injury in pre-elite netball athletes. Foot blisters and low back pain also feature in the highest medical attention injuries and ACL rupture and concussion were high sports incapacity injuries at the ANNC's. Finally, combining both the medical attention and self-report injury/illness data collection methods identified more injuries/illnesses than the use of one method alone.

Implementation of the Adductor Strengthening Programme: Players primed for adoption but reluctant to maintain - A cross-sectional study

Groin injuries represent a considerable problem in male football, accounting for 4%‐19% of all time‐loss injuries. The Adductor Strengthening Programme is the first groin‐specific prevention program shown to reduce the risk of groin problems. We aimed to use the RE‐AIM framework to examine the players’ experiences with the implementation of the program and player attitude toward groin injury prevention in football. Of the 632 players involved in the trial examining the effect of the Adductor Strengthening Programme, 501 agreed to participate in a survey at the end of the season. Most players thought that footballers are at moderate to high risk for groin injuries (87%) and that there is a need for preventive measures (96%). They also believed that a preventive program with strengthening exercises would reduce the risk of groin injuries (91%). Majority of the players reported using <5 minutes to complete the program (73%), and only 11% wanted additional exercises. However, only 46% reported to have performed the program as recommended, and an even smaller proportion (31%) planned to continue using it as recommended the next season. Our results suggest that footballers believe that prevention of groin injuries is needed. Attitude toward implementation of the Adductor Strengthening Programme was positive, and the single‐exercise approach was considered an important facilitator. However, in future dissemination of the program, the players’ reluctance to maintain the exercise protocol may be a potential barrier to implementation that should be addressed.

Soccer Footedness and Between-Limbs Muscle Strength: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Purpose: Limb dominance and consequent between-limbs muscle strength in soccer players should be explored to determine a standard musculoskeletal profile to maintain and establish during screening protocols and postinjury rehabilitation. The primary aim of this review was to identify dominant- vs non-dominant-lower-extremity muscle-strength characteristics of healthy soccer players, with secondary aims to consider available between-limbs outcome measures and directions for future research. Methods: Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were followed. Five electronic databases were used for study identification with guidance from a medical librarian. Inclusion criteria consisted of studies employing a cross-sectional design assessing soccer players of all ages, genders, and levels of play that identified limb dominance and associated lower-extremity muscle strength as a main purpose of the experiment. Results: The literature search identified 3471 articles. After screening titles, abstracts, and full texts, 17 articles were included in the review. Peak torques and hamstring-to-quadriceps ratios via isokinetic dynamometry were commonly used, and subsequent meta-analyses were conducted to yield remarkable between-limbs symmetry. Additional results of individual studies also demonstrate symmetry, except 1 article of velocity-dependent measures that reported greater strength in the dominant limb. Conclusions: In soccer, between-limbs muscle strength measured by maximal isokinetic dynamometry demonstrates symmetry across ages, genders, and levels of play. Future testing using alternative measures that more specifically replicate the movement demands of soccer players may further classify between-limbs characteristics.

Five-Second Squeeze Testing in 333 Professional and Semiprofessional Male Ice Hockey Players: How Are Hip and Groin Symptoms, Strength, and Sporting Function Related?

Background

Hip and groin problems are just as common in ice hockey as they are in soccer. The 5-second squeeze test (5SST) is a valid indicator of hip- and groin-related sporting function (self-reported function) in soccer and is suggested to be interpreted according to a "traffic light" approach in guiding the early identification and management of affected players. It is currently unknown how the 5SST relates to self-reported function and muscle strength in ice hockey players.

Purpose

To investigate correlations between the 5SST result, self-reported function, and hip muscle strength in ice hockey players. A further aim was to investigate the discriminative ability of the "traffic light" approach (numeric rating scale [NRS] score: 0-2 = green, 3-5 = yellow, 6-10 = red) regarding levels of self-reported function and strength.

Study Design

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods

Professional and semiprofessional male ice hockey players (N = 333) performed the 5SST and completed the Sport subscale of the Copenhagen Hip and Groin Outcome Score (HAGOS). Bilateral adduction and abduction strength was measured using handheld dynamometry. Associations were estimated using Spearman rank-order correlations, and groups were compared using the Kruskal-Wallis test or analysis of variance. Standardized effect sizes (ESs) for differences in strength (Hedges g) and self-reported function (r) were provided.

Results

The 5SST result was significantly correlated with self-reported function (rho, -0.319; P < .01) and hip muscle strength (rho, -0.157 to -0.305; P < .01). The HAGOS Sport scores differed significantly between all 3 traffic light groups (ES, 0.23-0.33; P ≤ .005). Players with an NRS score >2 (yellow or red light) had lower adduction (ES ≥ 0.75; P < .001) and abduction strength (yellow: ES, 0.30; P = .031) (red: ES, 0.51; P = .058) than players with a green light.

Conclusion

The 5SST result was significantly correlated with self-reported function as well as hip muscle strength and was able to discriminate between the traffic light levels in ice hockey players. Players with a yellow or red light had reduced adduction and abduction strength compared with players with a green light (NRS score ≤2). Routine 5SSTs may allow the early identification of affected ice hockey players and indicate yellow and red light situations, in which players may benefit from load management and appropriate hip muscle strengthening.

Hip and groin injury is the most common non-time-loss injury in female amateur football

PURPOSE

Hip and groin injuries in football are problematic due to their high incidence and risk of chronicity and recurrence. The use of only time-loss injury definitions may underestimate the burden of hip and groin injuries. Little is known about hip and groin injury epidemiology in female football. The first aim of this study was to examine the within-season (2014-2015) prevalence of total injury with and without time-loss in female amateur football players. The second aim was to study the within-season and preseason (2015-2016) prevalence of hip/groin injuries with and without time-loss. The third aim was to study the association between the duration of hip and groin injury in the 2014-2015 season and the severity of hip/groin problems during the 2015-2016 preseason.

METHODS

During the preseason, 434 Dutch female amateur football players completed an online questionnaire based on the previous season and current preseason. The hip and groin outcome score (HAGOS) was used to assess the severity of hip and groin injuries.

RESULTS

The hip/groin (17%), knee (14%), and ankle (12%) were the most frequent non-time-loss injury locations. The ankle (22%), knee (18%), hamstring (11%), thigh (10%), and hip/groin (9%) were the most common time-loss injury locations. The previous season prevalence of total injury was 93%, of which non-time-loss injury was 63% and time-loss injury was 37%. The prevalence of hip/groin injury was 40%, non-time-loss hip/groin injury was 36% and time-loss hip/groin injury was 11%. The preseason prevalence of hip/groin injury was 27%, non-time-loss hip/groin injury was 25%, and time-loss hip/groin injury was 4%. Players with longstanding hip/groin injury (> 28 days) in the previous season had lower HAGOS scores at the next preseason than players with short-term (1-7 days) or no hip/groin injury (p < 0.001). From all players with hip/groin injury from the previous season, 52% also sustained hip/groin injury in the following preseason, of which 73% were recurrent and 27% were chronic hip/groin injuries.

CONCLUSION

Injury risk, and especially non-time-loss hip and groin injury risk, is high in female amateur football. Three-quarters of the players with longstanding hip and groin injuries in the previous season have residual problems at the start of the following season.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II.

Diagnostic Accuracy of a Self-report Measure of Patellar Tendinopathy in Youth Basketball

BACKGROUND

To engage clinicians in diagnosing patellar tendinopathy in large surveillance studies is often impracticable. The Oslo Sports Trauma Research Centre-patellar tendinopathy (OSTRC-P) questionnaire, a self-report measure adapted from the OSTRC questionnaire, may provide a viable alternative.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of the OSTRC-P questionnaire in detecting patellar tendinopathy in youth basketball players when compared to clinical evaluation.

METHODS

Following the STAndards for Reporting of Diagnostic accuracy studies guidelines, the researchers recruited 208 youth basketball players (13-18 years of age) for this prospective diagnostic accuracy validation study. Participants completed the OSTRC-P questionnaire (index test) prior to a clinical evaluation (reference standard) by a physical therapist blinded to OSTRC-P questionnaire results. Sensitivity, specificity, predictive value, likelihood ratio, and posttest probability were calculated. Linear regression was used to examine the association between the OSTRC-P questionnaire severity score and the patellar tendinopathy severity rating during a single-leg decline squat.

RESULTS

The final analysis included 169 players. The OSTRC-P questionnaire had a sensitivity of 79% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 65%, 90%), specificity of 98% (95% CI: 94%, 100%), positive predictive value of 95% (95% CI: 83%, 99%), negative predictive value of 92% (95% CI: 86%, 96%), positive likelihood ratio of 48 (95% CI: 12, 191), and negative likelihood ratio of 0.21 (95% CI: 0.12, 0.37). The posttest probabilities were 95% and 8%, given positive and negative results, respectively. A positive association was found between OSTRC-P questionnaire severity score and single-leg decline squat rating (β = 0.08; 95% CI: 0.03, 0.12; P = .001).

CONCLUSION

The OSTRC-P questionnaire is an acceptable alternative to clinical evaluation for self-reporting patellar tendinopathy and grading its severity in settings involving youth basketball players.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Diagnosis, level 1b. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2018;48(10):758-766. Epub 27 Apr 2018. doi:10.2519/jospt.2018.8088.

Sports Hernia/Athletic Pubalgia Among Women

Background:

“Athletic pubalgia,” a term that has gained acceptance over “sports hernia,” is more common in men than women; however, it represents a significant source of morbidity for patients of both sexes. Inconsistent terminology surrounding this entity poses a diagnostic challenge and makes studying the populations at risk difficult.

Purpose:

To review a case series of women with athletic pubalgia by analyzing their presentations, concomitant pathologies, and surgical outcomes.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Between 2013 and 2016, 197 patients were seen and evaluated for the diagnosis of athletic pubalgia. Eighteen patients seen during this time were women. All patients received “pubalgia protocol” magnetic resonance imaging and subsequent surgical intervention for their pathologies. Outcomes among 17 women were assessed with a patient questionnaire >1 year after surgery.

Results:

Of the 17 women, 9 had rectus aponeurotic plate injury only, or pure athletic pubalgia; the remaining 8 had athletic pubalgia in combination with ≥1 inguinal, obturator, and femoral hernias. Regarding female patients in both groups, 88.2% reported that the surgery was a success at follow-up.

Conclusion:

Surgical repair of athletic pubalgia among women is successful in dramatically reducing pain levels in this important subset of patients.

Risk Factors for Groin Injury and Groin Symptoms in Elite-Level Soccer Players: A Cohort Study in the Dutch Professional Leagues

Background Groin injury and groin symptoms are common in soccer players. The relationship of groin injury and groin symptoms to reduced hip range of motion (ROM) and previous injury is unclear. Objectives To conduct a retrospective assessment of associations between previous injury and preseason hip ROM and preseason prevalence of severe groin symptoms, and to prospectively identify risk factors for within-season groin injury. Methods During the period of 2015 to 2016, 190 players from 9 Dutch professional soccer clubs participated in this cohort study with prospective and retrospective elements. Univariate and multivariate logistic regressions were used to predict preseason severe groin symptoms, identified using the Copenhagen Hip and Groin Outcome Score, from a history of previous groin injury, general injury (minimum of 1 week in duration) in the previous season, and hip ROM. Cox regression was used to predict within-season groin injury. Results Point prevalence of severe groin symptoms was 24% and within-season incidence of groin injury was 11%. Total, training, and match groin injury incidences were 0.5, 0.2, and 2.6 injuries per 1000 playing hours, respectively. A history of more than 1 previous groin injury was associated with current severe groin symptoms (odds ratio = 3.0; 95% confidence interval: 1.0, 8.3; P = .038). General injury sustained in the previous season (ankle, knee, thigh, shoulder; median, 9 weeks of time loss) was a risk factor for groin injury (hazard ratio = 5.1; 95% confidence interval: 1.8, 14.6; P = .003). Conclusion Severe injuries in the previous season to locations other than the groin increase the risk of groin injury the next season. A history of groin injury is associated with current severe groin symptoms. Preseason hip ROM does not identify players at risk for groin injury. Level of Evidence Prevention, level 2b. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2018;48(9):704-712. Epub 23 May 2018. doi:10.2519/jospt.2018.7990.

Electromyographic analysis of hip adductor muscles in soccer instep and side-foot kicking

A possible link between soccer-specific injuries, such as groin pain and the action of hip adductor muscles has been suggested. This study aimed to investigate neuromuscular activation of the adductor magnus (AM) and longus (AL) muscles during instep and side-foot soccer kicks. Eight university soccer players performed the two types of kick at 50%, 75% and 100% of the maximal ball speed. Surface electromyography (EMG) was recorded from the AM, AL, vastus lateralis (VL) and biceps femoris (BF) muscles of both kicking and supporting legs and the kicking motions were three-dimensionally captured. In the kicking leg, an increase in surface EMG with an increase in ball speed during instep kicking was noted in the AM muscle (p < 0.016), but not in AL, VL or BF muscles (p > 0.016). In the supporting leg, surface EMG of both AM and AL muscles was significantly increased with an increase in the ball speed before ball impact during both instep and side-foot kicks (p < 0.016). These results suggest that hip adductor muscles markedly contribute to either the kicking or supporting leg to emphasise the action of soccer kicks.

Overuse injuries are prevalent in children's competitive football: a prospective study using the OSTRC Overuse Injury Questionnaire

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the prevalence and burden of overuse injuries in children's football as well as player characteristics and their association with overuse injury risk.

METHODS

This investigation is based on the control arm (10 clubs) of a randomised controlled trial investigating prevention of injuries in youth football. We conducted a prospective 20-week follow-up study on overuse injuries among Finnish football players (n=733, aged 9-14 years). Each week, we sent a text message to players' parents to ask if the player had sustained any injury during the past week. Players with overuse problem were interviewed over the phone using an overuse injury questionnaire. The main outcome measures were prevalence of all overuse injuries and substantial overuse injuries (those leading to moderate or severe reductions in participation or performance) and injury severity.

RESULTS

The average response rate was 95%. In total, 343 players (46.8%) reported an overuse problem while in the study. The average weekly prevalence of all overuse problems and substantial overuse problems was 12.8% and 6.0%, respectively. Injuries affecting the knee had the highest weekly prevalence (5.7% and 2.4% for all and substantial knee problems, respectively). Girls had a higher likelihood of knee problems (OR 2.70; 95% CI 1.69 to 4.17), whereas boys had a higher likelihood of heel problems (OR 2.82; 95% CI 1.07 to 7.44). The likelihood of reporting an overuse problem increased with age (OR 1.21; 95% CI 1.00 to 1.47).

CONCLUSION

Overuse injuries are prevalent in children's competitive football. Knee overuse injuries represent the greatest burden on participation and performance.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ISRCTN14046021.

Sub-elite Football Players With Hip-Related Groin Pain and a Positive Flexion, Adduction, and Internal Rotation Test Exhibit Distinct Biomechanical Differences Compared With the Asymptomatic Side

Background Hip-related groin pain is common in sub-elite football players and may be associated with altered hip biomechanics. Objectives To compare the hip biomechanics, bony hip morphology associated with femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) syndrome, and hip strength and range of motion (ROM) between the symptomatic and asymptomatic limbs of sub-elite football players with unilateral hip-related groin pain and a positive flexion, adduction, and internal rotation (FADIR) test. Methods Fifteen sub-elite football (soccer) players with unilateral hip-related groin pain and a positive FADIR test were recruited for this observational cross-sectional study. Three-dimensional motion analysis and ground reaction force data were recorded for walking and a single-leg drop-jump (SLDJ) task. Participants also underwent a standard anterior-posterior hip radiograph and hip strength and ROM assessment. Between-limb differences were assessed using paired t tests or Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. Results The symptomatic limb displayed a smaller peak hip extension angle (P = .01) and a lower peak hip adduction moment (P = .03) compared with the asymptomatic limb during the stance phase of walking. Additionally, during the SLDJ, the symptomatic limb demonstrated less total sagittal plane ROM (P = .04). The symptomatic limb also demonstrated less external rotation ROM (P = .03). However, no differences were found between limbs for bony hip morphology associated with FAI syndrome or hip strength. Conclusion This study found between-limb asymmetries in low- and high-impact functional tasks, such as walking and an SLDJ, in football players with unilateral hip-related groin pain. Despite unilateral pain, bony morphology associated with FAI syndrome did not differ between limbs. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2018;48(7):584-593. Epub 8 May 2018. doi:10.2519/jospt.2018.7910.

The Adductor Strengthening Programme prevents groin problems among male football players: a cluster-randomised controlled trial

Background

Groin injuries represent a considerable problem in male football. Previous groin-specific prevention programmes have not shown a significant reduction in groin injury rates. An exercise programme using the Copenhagen Adduction exercise increases hip adduction strength, a key risk factor for groin injuries. However, its preventive effect is yet to be tested.

Aim

To evaluate the effect of a single-exercise approach, based on the Copenhagen Adduction exercise, on the prevalence of groin problems in male football players.

Methods

35 semiprofessional Norwegian football teams were cluster-randomised into an intervention group (18 teams, 339 players) and a control group (17 teams, 313 players). The intervention group performed an Adductor Strengthening Programme using one exercise, with three progression levels, three times per week during the preseason (6–8 weeks), and once per week during the competitive season (28 weeks). The control group were instructed to train as normal. The prevalence of groin problems was measured weekly in both groups during the competitive season using the Oslo Sports Trauma Research Center Overuse Injury Questionnaire.

Results

The average prevalence of groin problems during the season was 13.5% (95% CI 12.3% to 14.7%) in the intervention group and 21.3% (95% CI 20.0% to 22.6%) in the control group. The risk of reporting groin problems was 41% lower in the intervention group (OR 0.59, 95% CI 0.40 to 0.86, p=0.008).

Conclusion

The simple Adductor Strengthening Programme substantially reduced the self-reported prevalence and risk of groin problems in male football players.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN98514933.

Endoscopic Proximal Adductor Lengthening for Chronic Adductor-Related Groin Pain

Proximal adductor injuries are relatively common groin injuries in athletes. Various tenotomy techniques have been described including open, partial, and percutaneous approaches. Current techniques help most athletes return to sport; however, many develop adductor weakness. Moreover, the procedures lack full visualization of the tendon and do not allow for return to athletes' preinjury level of play. We describe an endoscopic z-lengthening of the proximal adductor tendon with the potential to minimize complications associated with open procedures such as incisional pain and neurovascular injury while affording a more complete tenotomy than current percutaneous techniques. This is a safe and reproducible technique that allows for release of tension as a result of pathologic adductor tendon pathologies.

Musculoskeletal Screening Tests and Bony Hip Morphology Cannot Identify Male Professional Soccer Players at Risk of Groin Injuries: A 2-Year Prospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Musculoskeletal hip/groin screening tests are commonly performed to detect at-risk individuals. Bony hip morphology is considered a potential intrinsic risk factor but has not been examined prospectively.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the association between intrinsic risk factors identified from musculoskeletal and radiographic screening tests and hip/groin injuries leading to time loss from training and/or match play in professional male soccer players.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

METHODS

Male professional soccer players, aged ≥18 years, underwent screening specific for hip/groin pain during 2 consecutive seasons of the Qatar Stars League. The screening battery included pain provocation, range of motion, and strength tests as well as a hip radiographic examination. The radiographic examination included an anteroposterior pelvic view and 45° Dunn view, with bony hip morphology determined using quantitative methods. Time-loss (≥1 day) hip/groin injuries and individual player exposure (training and match play) were recorded prospectively, and injuries were categorized as adductor-related, inguinal-related, iliopsoas-related, pubic-related, or hip-related groin pain, or "other," as recommended in the Doha agreement. We calculated hazard ratios (HRs) from univariate and multivariate Cox regression models to assess the relationship between potential risk factors and hip/groin injuries.

RESULTS

There were 438 players, completing 609 player seasons, and 113 hip/groin injuries that met the criteria for inclusion, with 85 injuries categorized as adductor-related. The proportion of players with bony morphological variants was the following: cam, 71%; pincer, 5%; and acetabular dysplasia, 13%. Previous hip/groin injuries (HR, 1.8; 95% CI, 1.2-2.7) and eccentric adduction strength were associated with the risk of hip/groin injuries. Higher (>1 SD above the mean) than normal eccentric adduction strength was associated with an increased risk for all hip/groin injuries (HR, 1.6; 95% CI, 1.0-2.5). Lower (<1 SD below the mean) than normal eccentric adduction strength was associated with an increased risk for adductor-related injuries (HR, 1.7; 95% CI, 1.0-3.0). No other musculoskeletal screening test or bony hip morphology variables were associated with the injury risk.

CONCLUSION

Previous groin injuries and eccentric adduction strength were associated with the risk of groin injuries. However, these associations were not strong enough to identify an "at-risk" individual, and therefore, musculoskeletal screening tests were not useful to dictate individualized prevention strategies. Bony hip morphology was not associated with the risk of groin injuries.