The effect of dynamic femoroacetabular impingement on pubic symphysis motion: a cadaveric study

A New Clinical Examination Algorithm to Prescribe Conservative Treatment in People with Hip-Related Pain

Hip-related pain is a common issue in active adults affecting their quality of life, mobility, and overall function, and it can lead to persistent disability. However, diagnosing hip-related pain is challenging due to the many potential sources and causes, including intra-articular and extra-articular pathology, and referred pain from other areas (lumbar or groin related pain). To address this, there is a need for a clinical algorithm based on the best available evidence and expert consensus. This algorithm could guide healthcare professionals in assessing and managing patients with hip-related pain, during the diagnosis, test selection, intervention, monitoring, and promoting collaboration among various healthcare providers. This clinical algorithm for hip-related pain is a comprehensive, flexible, adaptable to different settings, and regularly updated to incorporate new research findings. This literature review aims to establish a clinical algorithm specifically for prescribing exercise treatment to patients with hip-related pain, addressing their individual needs and enhancing their overall care.

Associations Between Hip Pathology, Hip and Groin Pain, and Injuries in Hockey Athletes: A Clinical Commentary

Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), particularly cam morphology, is highly prevalent among elite hockey athletes. Moreover, hip and groin pain has become a common issue in hockey, with approximately 50% of European professional athletes reported to experience a hip or groin problem during a season. While most athletes will not miss training or competition due to this, restricted competitive performance and increased risk of reduced physical and psychological well-being are likely. Recent research suggests that the development of cam morphology is related to the repetitive shear stresses experienced at the hip joint during adolescence from skating. This condition likely increases the potential for intra-articular and extra-articular injuries in these athletes later in their careers. Research also indicates that the hip joint mechanics during forward skating substantially increase the possibility of sustaining a labral tear compared to other sports. Such an injury can increase femoral head movement within the joint, potentially causing secondary damage to the iliofemoral ligament, ligamentum teres and joint capsule. These injuries and the high density of nociceptors in the affected structures may explain the high prevalence of hip and groin pain in hockey athletes. Compensatory adaptations, such as reduced hip strength, stability, and range-of-motion (ROM) likely increase the opportunity for core muscle injuries and hip flexor and adductor injuries. Specifically, the limited hip ROM associated with cam morphology appears to exacerbate the risk of these injuries as there will be an increase in pubic symphysis stress and transverse strain during rotational movements. It is hoped that this article will assist practitioners currently working with hockey athletes to develop evidence-informed monitoring strategies and training interventions, aimed at reducing the incidence and severity of hip and groin problems, ultimately enhancing athlete performance and well-being. Therefore, the purpose of this clinical commentary was to examine current evidence on common hip pathologies in hockey athletes, exploring potential associations between hip and groin pain and the biomechanics of hockey activities.

Level of Evidence

5.

The Role of MRI in Groin Pain Syndrome in Athletes

Groin pain syndrome (GPS) is one of the most frequent injuries in competitive sports. Stresses generated in the lower limbs by quick turns and accelerations, such as in soccer, basketball or hockey, can produce localized regions of increased forces, resulting in anatomical lesions. The differential diagnoses are numerous and comprise articular, extra-articular, muscular, tendinous and visceral clinical conditions and a correct diagnosis is crucial if treatment is to be efficient. MRI is the gold standard of diagnostic techniques, especially when an alternative pathology needs to be excluded and/or other imaging techniques such as ultrasound or radiography do not lead to a diagnosis. This paper, based on the current literature, gives a comprehensive review of the anatomy of the pubic region and of the typical MRI findings in those affected by GPS. Many clinical conditions causing GPS can be investigated by MRI within appropriate protocols. However, MRI shows limits in reliability in the investigation of inguinal and femoral hernias and therefore is not the imaging technique of choice for studying these clinical conditions.

Initial Assessment and Management of Select Musculoskeletal Injuries: A Team Physician Consensus Statement

ABSTRACT

Musculoskeletal injuries occur frequently in sport during practice, training, and competition. Injury assessment and management are common responsibilities for the team physician. Initial Assessment and Management of Musculoskeletal Injury-A Team Physician Consensus Statement is title 23 in a series of annual consensus documents written for the practicing team physician. This statement was developed by the Team Physician Consensus Conference, an annual project-based alliance of six major professional associations. The goal of this document is to help the team physician improve the care and treatment of the athlete by understanding the initial assessment and management of selected musculoskeletal injuries.

Initial Assessment and Management of Select Musculoskeletal Injuries: A Team Physician Consensus Statement

ABSTRACT

Musculoskeletal injuries occur frequently in sport during practice, training, and competition. Injury assessment and management are common responsibilities for the team physician. Initial Assessment and Management of Musculoskeletal Injury-A Team Physician Consensus Statement is title 23 in a series of annual consensus documents written for the practicing team physician. This statement was developed by the Team Physician Consensus Conference, an annual project-based alliance of six major professional associations. The goal of this document is to help the team physician improve the care and treatment of the athlete by understanding the initial assessment and management of selected musculoskeletal injuries.

Core Muscle Injury: Evaluation and Treatment in the Athlete

BACKGROUND

Pain in the groin region, where the abdominal musculature attaches to the pubis, is referred to as a "sports hernia,""athletic pubalgia," or "core muscle injury" and has become a topic of increased interest due to its challenging diagnosis. Identifying the cause of chronic groin pain is complicated because significant symptom overlap exists between disorders of the proximal thigh musculature, intra-articular hip pathology, and disorders of the abdominal musculature.

PURPOSE

To present a comprehensive review of the pathoanatomic features, history and physical examination, and imaging modalities used to make the diagnosis of core muscle injury.

STUDY DESIGN

Narrative and literature review; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was performed. Studies involving the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of athletes with core muscle injury were identified. In addition, the senior author's extensive experience with the care of professional, collegiate, and elite athletes was analyzed and compared with established treatment algorithms.

RESULTS

The differential diagnosis of groin pain in the athlete should include core muscle injury with or without adductor longus tendinopathy. Current scientific evidence is lacking in this field; however, consensus regarding terms and treatment algorithms was facilitated with the publication of the Doha agreement in 2015. Pain localized proximal to the inguinal ligament, especially in conjunction with tenderness at the rectus abdominis insertion, is highly suggestive of core muscle injury. Concomitant adductor longus tendinopathy is not uncommon in these athletes and should be investigated. The diagnosis of core muscle injury is a clinical one, although dynamic ultrasonography is becoming increasingly used as a diagnostic modality. Magnetic resonance imaging is not always diagnostic and may underestimate the true extent of a core muscle injury. Functional rehabilitation programs can often return athletes to the same level of play. If an athlete has been diagnosed with athletic pubalgia and has persistent symptoms despite 12 weeks of nonoperative treatment, a surgical repair using mesh and a relaxing myotomy of the conjoined tendon should be considered. The most common intraoperative finding is a deficient posterior wall of the inguinal canal with injury to the distal rectus abdominis. Return to play after surgery for an isolated sports hernia is typically allowed at 4 weeks; however, if an adductor release is performed as well, return to play occurs at 12 weeks.

CONCLUSION

Core muscle injury is a diagnosis that requires a high level of clinical suspicion and should be considered in any athlete with pain in the inguinal region. Concurrent adductor pathology is not uncommon.

Hip Range of Motion and Strength in Male Athletes with Stage 1 Osteitis Pubis: A Cross-Sectional and Correlational Study

BACKGROUND

The objectives of this study were: (1) to determine whether athletes with stage 1 osteitis pubis (OP) present differences in hip range of motion (ROM) and muscle strength, between both sides and compared with healthy athletes; (2) to investigate the relationship between the internal rotation (IR) ROM and pain intensity and physical function.

METHODS

a cross-sectional and correlational study was designed, in which 30 athletes (15 athletes with stage 1 OP and 15 healthy athletes) were included. Pain intensity, physical function, hip ROM and hip muscle strength were assessed.

RESULTS

The ROM assessment reported significant differences between both groups in the IR, external rotation (ER) and adduction (ADD) ROM of the painful side (PS) (p < 0.05). The OP group showed differences between both sides in IR ER and ADD ROM (p < 0.05). No statistically significant differences were found between or within groups in the maximum isometric strength of the hip (p > 0.05). A strong negative correlation between pain intensity and IR ROM (r = -0.640) and a strong positive correlation between physical function and IR ROM (r = 0.563) were found in the OP group.

CONCLUSIONS

Male athletes with stage 1 OP present a hip IR, ER and ADD ROM limitation in the PS compared to non-PS and to healthy athletes. IR ROM is correlated to pain intensity and physical function in athletes with stage 1 OP.

Evaluation of additional causes of hip pain in patients with femoroacetabular impingement syndrome

Femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS) is an increasingly prevalent pathology in young and active patients, that has contributing factors from both abnormal hip morphology as well as abnormal hip motion. Disease progression can be detrimental to patient quality of life in the short term, from limitations on sport and activity, as well as the long term through early onset of hip arthritis. However, several concurrent or contributing pathologies may exist that exacerbate hip pain and are not addressed by arthroscopic intervention of cam and pincer morphologies. Lumbopelvic stiffness, for instance, places increased stress on the hip to achieve necessary flexion. Pathology at the pubic symphysis and sacroiliac joint may exist concurrently to FAIS through aberrant muscle forces. Additionally, both femoral and acetabular retro- or anteversion may contribute to impingement not associated with traditional cam/pincer lesions. Finally, microinstability of the hip from either osseous or capsuloligamentous pathology is increasingly being recognized as a source of hip pain. The present review investigates the pathophysiology and evaluation of alternate causes of hip pain in FAIS that must be evaluated to optimize patient outcomes.

Cleft Sign and Bone Marrow Edema of the Pubic Symphysis Are Associated With Sports and Bony Morphology in Patients With Femoroacetabular Impingement and Labral Tears

Background:

The cleft sign (CS) and bone marrow edema (BME) are considered magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings signifying a pubic pathology, which is associated with groin pain; however, their relationship with bony morphology related to femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) has not been established.

Purpose:

To investigate the prevalence of CS and BME in symptomatic patients with acetabular labral tears and assess their possible association with bone morphology and sport-specific activities.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

This study enrolled 418 patients (469 hips) undergoing hip arthroscopic surgery for labral tears. Also included were patients with labral tears in the setting of either hip dysplasia or borderline hip dysplasia who were undergoing endoscopic shelf acetabuloplasty combined with hip arthroscopic labral repair, cam osteoplasty, and capsular plication. All patients were screened for superior CS (SCS), inferior CS (ICS), and BME of the ipsilateral side of the pubis using 3-T MRI. We measured the following angles: lateral center edge (LCE), Sharp, Tönnis, vertical-central-anterior, and alpha. Then, we evaluated the relationship between patient characteristics and abnormal findings on MRI scans (preoperatively vs 1 year postoperatively).

Results:

An overall 397 hips were included: 200 in men and 197 in women (mean ± SD age, 35.3 ± 16.0 years). There were hips in 214 athletes (53.9%) and hips in 183 nonathletes (46.1%). MRI findings revealed SCS, ICS, and BME in 18 (4.5%), 13 (3.3%), and 34 hips (8.6%), respectively. Abnormal MRI findings at the pubis were seen more often in athletes than nonathletes (23.8% vs 3.3%), and contact sports athletes had the most frequent abnormalities. There was no SCS in patients with an LCE angle <22°. SCS was more frequently seen in those who had an alpha angle ≥71°. More than 60% of abnormal findings at the pubis diminished after arthroscopic surgery that included FAI correction and labral repair.

Conclusion:

In patients with labral tears, CS and BME were seen more frequently in athletes versus nonathletes, especially contact athletes with FAI-related bony abnormalities. More than 60% of abnormal MRI pubis findings resolved after arthroscopic treatment of FAI.

A proposed algorithm for the treatment of core muscle injuries

In recent years, there has been increased awareness and treatment of groin injuries in athletes. These injuries have been associated with various terminologies including sports hernia, core muscle injury (CMI), athletic pubalgia and inguinal disruption, among others. Treatment of these injuries has been performed by both orthopaedic and general surgeons and may include a variety of procedures such as rectus abdominis repair, adductor lengthening, abdominal wall repair with or without mesh, and hip arthroscopy for the treatment of concomitant femoroacetabular impingement. Despite our increased knowledge of these injuries, there is still no universal terminology, diagnostic methodology or treatment for a CMI. The purpose of this review is to present a detailed treatment algorithm for physicians treating patients with signs and symptoms of a CMI. In doing so, we aim to clarify the various pathologies involved in CMI, eliminate vague terminology, and present a clear, stepwise approach for both diagnosis and treatment of these injuries.

[Arthroscopically assisted minimally invasive symphysioplasty for the treatment of pubic related groin pain]

OBJECTIVE

Therapy of pubic related groin pain via minimally invasive symphysioplasty.

INDICATIONS

Therapy of refractory pubic related groin pain based on osteitis pubis.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Groin pain from causes other than pubic related groin pain.

SURGICAL TECHNIQUE

After a minimally invasive approach, an incision in the anterior capsule is made while protecting the dorsal capsule parts and the arcuate pubic ligament. The symphysis end plates are remodeled arthroscopically assisted using a surgical burr. The newly created pubic symphysis joint is filled with autogenous fibrin to support the formation of a new discus interpubicus.

POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT

Partial weight-bearing for 4 weeks with 20 kg using crutches is recommended. During the first 4 weeks the range of motion should be restricted.

RESULTS

Since 2010, 10 athletes (7 men, 3 women; average age 34.1 ± 7.8 (23-47) years) have undergone arthroscopically assisted minimally invasive symphysioplasty and treatment of femoroacetabular impingement syndrome. The average follow-up time was 5.1 (2-9) years. All patients returned to their sport level. The mean preoperative Nonarthritic Hip Score (NAHS) of 64.4 ± 15.1 (32.1-86.5) points improved to a mean postoperative NAHS of 91.4 ± 9.8 (62.4-98.75) points (p < 0.0001). The average patient satisfaction (scale 0 to 10; 10 highest satisfaction) was 9.8 ± 0.4 (9-10).

The prevalence and risk factors of pubic bone marrow edema in femoroacetabular impingement and hip dysplasia

Femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS) has been associated with osteitis pubis; however, it is still unclear whether hip dysplasia is associated with osteitis pubis. This study aimed to investigate (i) the incidence of pubic bone marrow edema (BME) on magnetic resonance imaging in symptomatic patients with FAIS, borderline developmental dysplasia of the hip (BDDH) and developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) undergoing hip arthroscopic surgery with labral preservation and (ii) the demographic and radiographic factors associated with pubic BME. A total of 259 symptomatic patients undergoing hip arthroscopic surgery between July 2016 and April 2019 were retrospectively reviewed and divided into three groups: FAIS (180 patients), BDDH (29 patients) and DDH (50 patients). Diffuse changes in the pubic bone adjacent to the pubic symphysis were labeled pubic BME, and the prevalence of their occurrence was examined. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors involved in pubic BME, and odds ratios (ORs) for relevant factors were calculated. There was no significant difference in the prevalence of pubic BME among the three groups (20 [11.1%] of 180 FAIS patients, 6 [20.6%] of 29 BDDH patients and 7 [14%] of 50 DDH patients, P = 0.325). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that acetabular coverage was not associated with pubic BME, whereas younger age and greater alpha angle were still independent associated factors [age ≤26 years (OR, 65.7) and alpha angle ≥73.5° (OR, 4.79)]. Determining the possible association of osteitis pubis with cam impingement in dysplastic hips may provide insights toward a more accurate understanding of its pathophysiology.

Resisted adduction sit-up test (RASUT) as a screening tool for pelvic versus hip pathology

Groin pain is a common symptom in hip and pelvic pathology and differentiating between the two remains a challenge. The purpose of this study was to examine whether a test combining resisted adduction with a sit-up (RASUT) differentiates between pelvic and hip pathology. The RASUT was performed on 160 patients with complaints of hip or groin pain who subsequently had their diagnosis confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or surgery. Patients were categorized as having pelvic pathology (athletic pubalgia or other) or hip pathology (intra-articular or other). Athletic pubalgia was defined as any condition involving the disruption of the pubic aponeurotic plate. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive accuracy, negative predictive accuracy and diagnostic odds ratios were computed. Seventy-one patients had pelvic pathology (40 athletic pubalgia), 81 had hip pathology and 8 had both. The RASUT was effective in differentiating pelvic from hip pathology; 50 of 77 patients with a positive RASUT had pelvic pathology versus 29 of 83 patients with a negative test (P < 0.001). RASUT was diagnostic for athletic pubalgia (diagnostic odds ratio 6.08, P < 0.001); 35 of 45 patients with athletic pubalgia had a positive RASUT (78% sensitivity) and 73 of 83 patients with a negative RASUT did not have athletic pubalgia (88% negative predictive accuracy). The RASUT can be used to differentiate pelvic from hip pathology and to identify patients without athletic pubalgia. This is a valuable screening tool in the armamentarium of the sports medicine clinician.

Surgical Outcomes of Inguinal-, Pubic-, and Adductor-Related Chronic Pain in Athletes: A Systematic Review Based on Surgical Technique

Background:

Controversies remain regarding the surgical treatment of inguinal-, pubic-, and adductor-related chronic groin pain (CGP) in athletes.

Purpose:

To investigate the outcomes of surgery for CGP in athletes based on surgical technique and anatomic area addressed.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

The PubMed and Embase databases were searched for articles reporting surgical treatment of inguinal-, pubic-, or adductor-related CGP in athletes. Inclusion criteria were level 1 to 4 evidence, mean patient age >15 years, and results presented as return-to-sport, pain, or functional outcomes. Quality assessment was performed with the CONSORT (Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials) statement or MINORS (Methodological Index for Non-randomized Studies) criteria. Techniques were grouped as inguinal, adductor origin, pubic symphysis, combined inguinal and adductor, combined pubic symphysis and adductor, or mixed.

Results:

Overall, 47 studies published between 1991 and 2020 were included. There were 2737 patients (94% male) with a mean age at surgery of 27.8 years (range, 12-65 years). The mean duration of symptoms was 13.1 months (range, 0.3-144 months). The most frequent sport involved was soccer (71%), followed by rugby (7%), Australian football (5%), and ice hockey (4%). Of the 47 articles reviewed, 44 were classified as level 4 evidence, 1 study was classified as level 3, and 2 randomized controlled trials were classified as level 1b. The quality of the observational studies improved modestly with time, with a mean MINORS score of 6 for articles published between 1991 and 2000, 6.53 for articles published from 2001 to 2010, and 6.9 for articles published from 2011 to 2020. Return to play at preinjury or higher level was observed in 92% (95% CI, 88%-95%) of the athletes after surgery to the inguinal area, 75% (95% CI, 57%-89%) after surgery to the adductor origin, 84% (95% CI, 47%-100%) after surgery to the pubic symphysis, and 89% (95% CI, 70%-99%) after combined surgery in the inguinal and adductor origin.

Conclusion:

Return to play at preinjury or higher level was more likely after surgery for inguinal-related CGP (92%) versus adductor-related CGP (75%). However, the majority of studies reviewed were methodologically of low quality owing to the lack of comparison groups.

A Systematic Review Shows High Variation in Terminology, Surgical Techniques, Preoperative Diagnostic Measures, and Geographic Differences in the Treatment of Athletic Pubalgia/Sports Hernia/Core Muscle Injury/Inguinal Disruption

PURPOSE

To perform a systematic review of reported terminologies, surgical techniques, preoperative diagnostic measures, and geographic differences in the treatment of core muscle injury (CMI)/athletic pubalgia/inguinal disruption.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed by searching PubMed, the Cochrane Library, and Embase to identify clinical studies or articles that described a surgical technique to treat CMI refractory to nonoperative treatment. The search phrase used was "core muscle injury" OR "sports hernia" OR "athletic pubalgia" OR "inguinal disruption." The diagnostic terminology, country of publication, preoperative diagnostic measures, surgical technique, and subspecialty of the operating surgeons described in each article were extracted and reported.

RESULTS

Thirty-one studies met the inclusion and exclusion criteria, including 3 surgical technique articles and 28 clinical articles (2 Level I evidence, 1 Level II, 4 Level III, and 21 Level IV). A total of 1,571 patients were included. The most common terminology used to describe the diagnosis was "athletic pubalgia," followed by "sports hernia." Plain radiographs and magnetic resonance imaging of the pelvis were the most common imaging modalities used in the preoperative evaluation of CMI/athletic pubalgia/inguinal disruption. Tenderness-to-palpation testing was the most common technique performed during physical examination, although the specific locations assessed with this technique varied substantially. The operating surgeons were general surgeons (16 articles), a combination of orthopaedic and general surgeons (7 articles), or orthopaedic surgeons (5 articles). The most common procedures performed were open or laparoscopic mesh repair, adductor tenotomy, primary tissue (hernia) repair, and rectus abdominis repair. The procedures performed differed on the basis of surgeon subspecialty, geographic location, and year of publication.

CONCLUSIONS

A variety of diagnostic methods and surgical procedures have been used in the treatment of a CMI/athletic pubalgia/sports hernia/inguinal disruption. These procedures are performed by orthopaedic and/or general surgeons, with the procedures performed differing on the basis of surgeon subspecialty and geographic location.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level V, systematic review of Level I to V studies.

Arthroscopic Correction of Femoroacetabular Impingement for Concomitant Inguinal Disruption in Athletes With Dual Pathology

BACKGROUND

Inguinal disruption and femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) are well-recognized sources of groin pain in athletes; however, the relationship between inguinal disruption and FAI remains unclear. In cases of dual pathology, where both entities coexist, there is no definitive consensus regarding which pathology should be prioritized for treatment in the first instance.

PURPOSE

(1) To examine the 2-year effectiveness and clinical outcome in athletes presenting with dual pathology in which the FAI component alone was treated with arthroscopic deformity correction. (2) To compare 2-year patient-reported outcome measures between athletes undergoing only hip arthroscopy (HA) and athletes undergoing groin repair and HA.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

All patients undergoing HA for the treatment of FAI with concomitant clinical signs of inguinal disruption at initial consultation were between 2010 and 2016 were included in this study. Inclusion criteria were male sex, age <40 years, and involvement in competitive sporting activity. Athletes with previous HA on the symptomatic side, Tönnis grade >1, or lateral center-edge angle <25° were excluded. Revision HA or subsequent groin surgery was documented. Outcome evaluation consisted of validated patient-reported outcome measures (modified Harris Hip Score; University of California, Los Angeles Activity Scale; 36-Item Short Form Health Survey; Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index) completed preoperatively and a minimum 2 years postoperatively. The minimal clinically important difference was assessed by using a distribution-based technique (SD, 0.5) and an anchor-based technique (percentage of possible improvement). Level of satisfaction and return to play were assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 113 cases of dual pathology were included in 91 patients with a mean ± SD age of 26.3 ± 5.1 years. The index surgical procedure was HA for 104 cases (92%) and groin repair for 9 (8%). For patients undergoing HA as the index procedure, 98.1% (102/104 cases) were successfully followed up to establish survivorship. In 89.2% (91/102 cases), no additional groin surgery was required. In 11 cases (10.8%), additional groin surgery was required for persisting inguinal-related groin pain. At 2 years after the operation, there was no difference for any patient-reported outcome measure (P > .099), improvement from baseline (P > .070), or proportion of cases achieving the minimal clinically important difference (P > .120) between the HA-only group and the group undergoing HA and groin repair at any stage. There was also no difference between groups in terms of return-to-play rate (P = .509) or levels of satisfaction (pain, P = .204; performance, P = .345).

CONCLUSION

In patients with dual pathology, treatment of the FAI component alone using arthroscopic hip surgery results in a successful outcome without need for groin repair in 89.2% of cases. No statistical difference in clinical outcome 2 years after surgery was observed between athletes undergoing 1 procedure (HA alone) and those undergoing 2 procedures (HA and groin repair at any stage).

Low Back Pain Improves After Surgery for Lesser Trochanteric-Ischial Impingement

PURPOSE

To assess the effects of surgery for lesser trochanteric-ischial impingement (LTI) on low back pain.

METHODS

The records of patients with LTI who underwent endoscopic partial resection of the lesser trochanter (LT) between May of 2017 and February of 2019 were reviewed. Inclusion criteria were the presence of low back pain in association with hip pain, diagnosis of LTI, and partial resection of the LT to treat LTI. Exclusion criteria were less than 12 months of postoperative follow-up and hip or spine surgery after the LTI surgery. Patients were assessed before surgery and at the most recent follow-up with the modified Harris Hip Score and Oswestry Disability Index for lumbar spine.

RESULTS

Thirty patients (31 hips) met the inclusion criteria. Four patients were lost to follow-up. Two patients with borderline dysplasia and grade 1 and 2 osteoarthritis underwent total hip arthroplasty after the partial resection of the LT. The results are presented considering the remaining 24 patients (25 hips). The average age at surgery was 51 years (range 32-65 years). The mean follow-up after the surgery for LTI was 19 months (range 12-35 months). The mean ± SD ODI improved from 48% ± 15 before the LTI surgery to 21% ± 22 (P < .001) at the most recent follow-up. Improvement in the Oswestry Disability Index above the minimal clinical important difference was observed in 16 patients (67%) following the LTI surgery. The mean ± SD modified Harris Hip Score improved from 55.8 ± 14 before LTI surgery to 81.3 ± 14.3 (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Decrease in low back pain above the minimal clinically important difference is observed in 2 of 3 patients after partial resection of the LT.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Femoroacetabular Impingement and Core Muscle Injury in Athletes: Diagnosis and Algorithms for Success

Athletic hip injuries account for a substantial portion of missed time from sports in high-level athletes. For both femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) and core muscles injuries, a thorough history and physical examination are paramount to guide the treatment. While advanced imaging including computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are frequently obtained, a wealth of information can be ascertained from standard radiographs alone. For patients with isolated or combined FAI and core muscle injuries (CMIs), the initial treatment is often nonoperative and consists of rest, activity modification, and physical therapy of the hips, core, and trunk. Injections may then aid in both confirming diagnosis and temporary symptom abatement. Arthroscopic procedures for refractory FAI in experienced hands have been shown to be both safe and efficacious. While surgical repair options for CMIs are significantly more variable, long-term studies have demonstrated the rapid resolution of symptoms and high return to play rates. More recently, anatomic and clinical correlations between FAI and CMIs have been identified. Special attention must be paid to elite athletes as the incidence of concurrent FAI with CMI is extremely high yet with significant symptom variability. Predictable return to play in athletes with coexisting symptomatic intra-articular and extra-articular symptomatology is incumbent upon the treatment of both pathologies.

The topography and morphometrics of the pubic ligaments

BACKGROUND

Conflicting anatomical reports and the little attention given to the pubic ligaments impede the interpretation of radiological and clinical examinations on groin pain. Morphometric data on the pubic ligaments are lacking.

METHODS

The muscular relations of the symphysis pubis were examined in layered dissection (n = 10), hemipelves (n = 60) and (un)stained plastinated body slices of body donors (n = 3). The sagittal and coronal areas, width, mean and maximum thickness of pubic ligaments were determined.

RESULTS

The adductor longus, brevis, rectus abdominis and pyramidalis muscles are attached to the anterior pubic ligament (APL). The adductor brevis and gracilis muscle are connected to the inferior pubic ligament (IPL). The IPL and superior pubic ligament (SPL) are thicker than the APL and posterior pubic ligament (PPL). The PPL is the thinnest pubic ligament. The APL has a larger sagittal area in women than in men compared to the IPL. The SPL and IPL are thicker in men compared to women.

CONCLUSION

The APL is the ligamentous anchor for the originating and inserting muscles. Investigations of the pubic ligaments might help to determine symphysis instability or severity of injury and should be included as a further criterion for surgical management.

Femoral Derotation Osteotomy Improves Hip and Spine Function in Patients With Increased or Decreased Femoral Torsion

PURPOSE

To evaluate the outcomes of proximal femoral derotation osteotomy (PFDO) on the hip and spine function of patients with abnormal femoral torsion.

METHODS

This retrospective study included patients who underwent PFDO to treat increased or decreased femoral torsion between July 2014 and February 2019. The exclusion criteria were: previous fracture, fixation of slipped capital femoral epiphysis or osteotomy in the ipsilateral femur; PFDO associated to varus or valgus osteotomy; Tönnis grade 2 or 3 osteoarthritis; and PFDO performed to treat knee abnormalities. Hip function was assessed through the modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS). A subgroup of consecutive patients with low back pain before the PFDO and operated after 2017 had the spine function assessed through the Oswestry disability index (ODI).

RESULTS

A total of 37 hips (34 patients) were studied: 15 hips with increased femoral torsion and 22 with decreased femoral torsion. Eight patients were male and 26 were female. The average age at PFDO was 33 years (range, 15-54 years). At a mean follow-up of 24 months (range, 12-65 months), the mean mHHS improved from 58.1 ± 14.3 before PFDO to 82 ± 15.6 at the most recent follow-up (P < .001). Improvement in the mHHS above the minimum clinically important difference (MCID) was observed in 33 hips (89%). In the subgroup of 14 consecutive patients with ODI available, the ODI improved from a mean of 45% ± 16% before the PFDO to 22% ± 17% at the most recent follow-up (P = .001). Nine (64.3%) of the 14 patients presented improvement in the ODI above the MCID. Revision procedure with a larger intramedullary nail was necessary in 2 hips to treat nonunion.

CONCLUSION

Proximal femoral derotation osteotomy improves the hip and spine function in patients with increased or decreased femoral torsion and nonarthritic hips.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Adult female patient with osteitis pubis and pelvic instability requiring surgery: A case report

Background

Osteitis pubis (OP) is an inflammatory condition of the symphysis pubis (SP) characterized by focal pain and local tenderness. Pelvic instability (PI) is commonly associated with this condition. It is still not clear if OP leads to PI or it is PI that leads to OP. The exact cause of osteitis pubis is not yet known, although several predisposing factors have been suggested to contribute to this condition. In most cases, it is self-remitting and rarely needs surgical intervention.

Case presentation

A 63-year old woman presented with a 12-month history of persistent pain at the symphysis pubis and non-responsive to analgesics. The pain was aggravated by physical activity such as standing and walking. Physical examination showed focal tenderness at the symphysis pubis with no tenderness over the sacroiliac joints or lumbar region. The diagnosis was confirmed by characteristic findings on radiographs, CT and MRI. Surgery was considered after all conservative measures failed. The patient underwent a wedge-shaped resection of the symphysis pubis; the bone defect was filled autologous tri-cortical bone and fixed with dual plating. The outcome was satisfactory with radiologic union and symptom resolution postoperatively.

Conclusions

Osteitis pubis due to pelvic instability can cause chronic and persistent pain. In cases where conservative treatment fails, surgery should be considered. We recommend wide surgical resection of all non-viable bone at the symphysis pubis with the addition of tri-cortical iliac bone graft. Double plating should be considered in order to maximize the rate of fusion and further stabilize the fixation.

The prevalence of athletic pubalgia imaging findings on MRI in patients with femoroacetabular impingement

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prevalence of athletic pubalgia imaging findings on MRI in patients with femoroacetabular impingement and assess for correlative risk factors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective search identified 156 hips with femoroacetabular impingement and a control group of 113 without femoroacetabular impingement that had an MRI performed between January 1, 2015, and January 1, 2018. Two fellowship-trained musculoskeletal radiologists reviewed studies for the presence of acute osteitis pubis, chronic osteitis pubis, adductor tendinosis, and tendon tear; rectus abdominis tendinosis and tendon tear; and aponeurotic plate tear. Findings were correlated with various clinical and imaging risk factors. Univariate and multivariate statistical analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Imaging findings of adductor tendinosis (p = 0.02) and chronic osteitis pubis (p = 0.01) were more prevalent in FAI patients than controls. Univariate analyses in FAI patients showed that an alpha angle ≥ 60° had a higher prevalence of aponeurotic plate tears (p = 0.02) and adductor tendinosis (p = 0.049). Multivariate analyses showed that an alpha angle ≥ 60° had a higher prevalence of chronic osteitis pubis (OR = 2.27, p = 0.031), sports participation had a higher prevalence of adductor tendon tears (OR = 4.69, p = 0.013) and chronic osteitis pubis (OR = 2.61, p = 0.0058), and males had a higher prevalence of acute osteitis pubis (OR = 5.17, p = 0.032).

CONCLUSION

Sports participation, alpha angle ≥ 60°, and male sex predict a higher prevalence of athletic pubalgia imaging findings in patients with femoroacetabular impingement.

Hip-spine syndrome: rationale for ischiofemoral impingement, femoroacetabular impingement and abnormal femoral torsion leading to low back pain

The term 'hip-spine syndrome' was introduced in recognition of the frequent occurrence of concomitant symptoms at the hip and lumbar spine. Limitations in hip range of motion can result in abnormal lumbopelvic mechanics. Ischiofemoral impingement, femoroacetabular impingement and abnormal femoral torsion are increasingly linked to abnormal hip and spinopelvic biomechanics. The purpose of this narrative review is to explain the mechanism by which these three abnormal hip pathologies contribute to increased low back pain in patients without hip osteoarthritis. This paper presents a thorough rationale of the anatomical and biomechanical characteristics of the aforementioned hip pathologies, and how each contributes to premature coupling and limited hip flexion/extension. The future of hip and spine conservative and surgical management requires the implementation of a global hip-spine-pelvis-core approach to improve patient function and satisfaction.

[Diagnostic algorithm "FAI and sports hernia" : Results of the consensus meeting for groin pain in athletes]

As a result of the complexity and diversity of diseases in the region of the groin, differentiation of the various soft-tissue and bone pathologies remains a challenge for differential diagnosis in routine clinical practice. In the case of athletes with pain localized in the area of the groin, femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) and athlete's groin must be considered as important causes of the groin pain, whereby the common occurrence of double pathologies further complicates diagnosis. Despite the importance of groin pain and its differential diagnoses in everyday clinical practice, there has been a lack of recognized recommendations for diagnostic procedure to date. To this end, a consensus meeting was held in February 2017, in which a group composed equally of groin and hip surgeons took part. With the formulation of recommendations and the establishment of a practicable diagnostic path, colleagues that are involved in treating such patients should be sensitized to this issue and the quality of the diagnosis of groin pain improved in routine clinical practice.

Association between cam-type femoroacetabular impingement and osteitis pubis in non-athletic population on magnetic resonance imaging

BACKGROUND

Osteitis pubis (OP) is a common source of groin and extra-articular hip pain and is associated with intra-articular hip pathology. In this study, we aimed to determine the prevalence of osteitis pubis on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in non-athletic patients with cam-type femoroacetabular impingement (FAI).

METHODS

This retrospective cross-sectional study included 178 subjects: 90 patients with cam-type FAI diagnosed by MRI and 88 subjects used as a control group. Additionally, their MRI data were analyzed for the characteristics of osteitis pubis, with severity graded from minimal to severe on a four-point scale.

RESULTS

A total of 98 patients and 88 controls were studied. Seventy-two males (80%) and 18 females (20%) were the patient group, whereas 71 males (80.68%) and 17 females (19.32%) were the control group. The mean alpha angle of the patients with FAI was 65.8 ± 3.3° in the right side and 66.2 ± 3.2° in the left side, whereas in the control group, it was 47 ± 5.6° in the right side and 47.8 ± 5.2° in the left side. Alpha angle measurements were significantly higher in the patient group than the control group (p < 0.001). A statistically significant increase in the prevalence of osteitis pubis was found in patients with cam-type FAI (45.56%) compared to control subjects (5.68%) (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated that the frequency of osteitis pubis was increased in non-athletic patients with FAI syndrome. Further studies are required to determine whether these findings reflect the clinical symptoms in patients with hip pain.

Performance and Return to Sport After Femoroacetabular Impingement Surgery in National Football League Players

The purpose of this study was to determine the (1) return-to-sport rate for National Football League (NFL) players following femoroacetabular impingement surgery, (2) postoperative career length and games per season, (3) pre- and postoperative performance, and (4) postoperative performance compared with control players matched by position, age, years of experience, and performance. National Football League athletes who underwent hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement and matched controls were identified. A Bonferroni correction was used to control for multiple comparisons, with statistical significance set at P≤.007. Fifty-five players (63 surgeries) were analyzed (mean age, 27.5±3.4 years; mean years in NFL at time of surgery, 4.7±2.9). Forty-seven (53 surgeries, 84.1%) NFL players returned to sport at a mean of 6.7±3.8 months following surgery. There was no difference (P>.007) in the mean career length of players in the control group (3.7±2.2 years) vs players who underwent hip arthroscopy (3.5±2.1 years). There was no difference (P>.007) in mean games played per season of players in the control group (12.5±3.1) vs those who underwent hip arthroscopy (12.1±4.0). Quarterbacks had significantly better postoperative performance scores when compared with post-index matched controls (P=.007). The return-to-sport rate is high for NFL athletes after hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement. There were similar games per season and career lengths postoperatively compared with preoperatively and matched controls. Quarterbacks had significantly better postoperative performance when compared with matched controls. All other positions had similar postoperative performance compared with preoperatively and matched controls. [Orthopedics. 2019; 42(5):e423-e429.].

Does athletic groin pain affect the muscular co-contraction during a change of direction

BACKGROUND

Groin pain is one of the common problems in multidirectional sports. It seems that abnormal muscular activity and improper movement strategy led to prolongation and high rate of this injury. Therefore, the aim of this study was to Comparing the Average amplitude of Electromyography (AEMG), co-contraction ratio (CCR) of selected thigh and thoracic muscle during turning in individuals with chronic groin pain and healthy individuals.

METHODS

Surface electromyography was collected from the internal oblique/transversus abdominis (IO/TrA), multifidus (MF), adductor Longus (AL) and gluteus Medius (GM) for AEMG and CCR analyzed in 16-males with LSGP and 16-controls in four motion phases during 11 cycles of gait coupled with turning.

RESULTS

Results revealed that in the AEMG apart from the third phase in the muscle of the IO/ Tr. A muscle and in the second phase in the MF muscle in the trunk and in the third phase in the muscle of the AL and the fourth phase in the GM foot Left There was a significant difference in other phases. There was a significant difference in the CCR, except in the second phase of the trunk and the fourth phase of the left foot in the rest of the phases.

CONCLUSIONS

It seems that in athletes with LSGP, have selective muscular activation and CCR have during turning, that may be resulting in compensatory strategies and movement control defects, which may be a useful tool to predict LSGP occurrence in players with a history of groin pain.

Editorial Commentary: Proximal Hamstring Injuries-Is the Hip to Blame?

There is a growing understanding of the relation between femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) and injury to adjacent structures. Patients with proximal hamstring pathology appear to have a high prevalence of underlying FAI. The kinetic chain phenomenon is a potential explanation of the high correlation between proximal hamstring injury and underlying FAI of the hip.

Radiographic Prevalence of Symphysis Pubis Abnormalities and Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Femoroacetabular Impingement Syndrome

BACKGROUND

The decreased hip range of motion seen in femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS) may lead to compensatory increased motion at the symphysis pubis (SP) with resultant increased stress on the joint, which can subsequently lead to osteitis pubis.

PURPOSE

To quantify the prevalence of SP abnormalities in patients with FAIS through the use of imaging modalities and to compare outcomes based on the presence of SP abnormalities.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

Radiographs and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of 1009 consecutive patients who underwent primary hip arthroscopy for FAIS from January 2012 to January 2016 were identified. Exclusion criteria were patients undergoing revision or bilateral surgery, patients with dysplasia, and patients with less than 2-year follow-up. On radiographs, SP joints were reviewed for joint surface erosions, subchondral sclerosis and cysts, and ankylosis. MRI scans were reviewed for marrow edema in the subarticular pubic bone, subchondral sclerosis and cysts, joint surface erosions, and ankylosis. Patients with SP abnormalities were matched 1:2 to patients without SP abnormalities by age and body mass index. Outcomes included the Hip Outcome Score-Activities of Daily Living (HOS-ADL), HOS-Sports Subscale (HOS-SS), modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS), International Hip Outcome Tool-12 (iHOT-12), and visual analog scales (VAS) for pain and satisfaction.

RESULTS

830 patients were included; 23 (2.8%) demonstrated SP abnormalities. Of the 726 (72%) MRI scans reviewed, 15 (1.8%) showed bone marrow edema, subchondral sclerosis, erosions, or ankylosis. After matching, patients without SP abnormalities had significantly greater HOS-ADL (95.7 vs 83.0; P = .008), HOS-SS (91.6 vs 61.9; P = .003), iHOT-12 (89.5 vs 74.6; P = .046), and VAS satisfaction (91.3 vs 58.8; P = .004) scores, in addition to less postoperative pain (6.3 vs 23.5; P < .001). No significant differences were found in the mHHS (92.5 vs 82.2; P = .08). Patients without SP abnormalities had higher odds of achieving the minimal clinically important difference for the HOS-ADL (odds ratio [OR], 4.5; 95% CI, 1.3-14.1; P = .010), the HOS-SS (OR, 7.2; 95% CI, 1.8-18.5; P = .006), and the mHHS (OR, 14.5; 95% CI, 1.8-24.7; P = .013).

CONCLUSION

A low prevalence (1.8%-2.6%) of SP joint abnormality is seen on imaging in patients with FAIS. These patients may demonstrate significantly inferior clinical outcomes and persistent postoperative pain after FAIS treatment.

Editorial Commentary: I Have a Hip Labral Tear? Well, That Makes Sense Because I Had a Labral Tear in My Shoulder Too

Most acetabular labral tears are caused by abnormal osseous morphology, such as cam and/or pincer morphology and dysplasia. There is a high prevalence of asymptomatic cam morphology, pincer morphology, dysplasia, and acetabular labral tears in the general population. The addition of subjective patient symptoms and objective physical examination findings to imaging (plain radiographs, magnetic resonance imaging, and computed tomography) may yield the diagnosis of femoroacetabular impingement syndrome. Most glenoid labral tears (e.g., Bankart lesion, posterior labral tear, or SLAP tear) are caused by either glenohumeral instability or a degenerative process. Similarly to the acetabular labrum, there is a high prevalence of asymptomatic glenoid labral tears in an asymptomatic population. Hip pathomorphology (e.g., cam impingement) can have a significant biomechanical impact both upstream and downstream on the kinetic chain (lumbosacral spine, periarticular hip musculature [athletic pubalgia, core muscle injury, sports hernia], knee [anterior cruciate ligament], and shoulder and elbow). Thus, it is tempting to believe that the hip issue may cause the shoulder issue or that an innate genetic (or acquired) abnormality may predispose both joints to labral injury. However, the wise clinician will not be lured into this trap-correlation does not equal causation. Biomechanical studies that evaluate stress transfer from the hip to the shoulder, in addition to clinical studies that prospectively follow these groups, will help to answer this highly relevant question.

Hip Arthroscopic Management Can Improve Osteitis Pubis and Bone Marrow Edema in Competitive Soccer Players With Femoroacetabular Impingement

BACKGROUND

There is a dearth of knowledge regarding the correlation between femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) and osteitis pubis (OP) among symptomatic soccer players.

PURPOSE

To elucidate whether arthroscopic FAI correction is effective for young competitive soccer players with FAI combined with OP or perisymphyseal pubic bone marrow edema (BME).

STUDY DESIGN

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

A total of 577 consecutive patients who underwent arthroscopic FAI correction were retrospectively reviewed with a minimum 2-year follow-up. Competitive soccer players who were professional, college, and high school athletes were included. The authors assessed the modified Harris Hip Score and Nonarthritic Hip Score preoperatively and at 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years after surgery. In addition, players were divided into groups according to radiographic evidence of OP and BME (2 groups each). Clinical outcomes, return to play, and radiographic assessments were compared between groups.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight hips met the inclusion criteria. The median modified Harris Hip Score significantly improved after hip arthroscopy (81.4, preoperatively; 95.7 at 6 months, P = .0065; 100 at 1 year, P = .0098; 100 at 2 years, P = .013). The median Nonarthritic Hip Score also significantly improved (75.0, preoperatively; 96.3 at 6 months, P = .015; 98.8 at 1 year, P = .0029; 100 at 2 years, P = .015). Furthermore, 92.0% of players returned to play soccer at the same or higher level of competition at a median 5.5 months (range, 4-15 months); 67.8% had radiological confirmation of OP; and 35.7% had pubic BME. The alpha angle was significantly higher in pubic BME group than the no-pubic BME group (64.8° vs 59.2°, P = .027), although there was no significant difference between the OP and no-OP groups. The prevalence of tenderness of the pubic symphysis significantly decreased preoperatively (32.1%) to postoperatively (3.6%). Magnetic resonance imaging findings confirmed that pubic BME disappeared in all players at a median 11 months (range, 6-36) after initial surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Arthroscopic management for FAI provides favorable clinical outcomes, a high rate of return to sports, and, when present, resolution of pubic BME among competitive soccer players.

The effect of pelvic tilt and cam on hip range of motion in young elite skiers and nonathletes

Background

Current knowledge of the effect of changes in posture and the way cam morphology of the hip joint may affect hip range of motion (ROM) is limited.

Purpose

To determine the effect of changes in pelvic tilt (PT) on hip ROM and with/without the presence of cam.

Study design

This was a cross-sectional study.

Materials and methods

The hip ROM of 87 subjects (n=61 young elite skiers, n=26 nonathletes) was examined using a goniometer, in three different seated postures (flexed, neutral, and extended). The hips of the subjects were further subgrouped into cam and no-cam morphology, based on the magnetic resonance imaging findings in the hips.

Results

There was a significant correlation between the hip ROM and the seated posture in both extended and flexed postures compared with the neutral posture. There was a significant decrease in internal hip rotation when the subjects sat with an extended posture with maximum anterior PT (p<0.0001). There was a significant increase in internal hip rotation when the subjects sat with a flexed posture with maximum posterior PT (p<0.001). External rotation was significantly decreased in an extended posture with maximum anterior PT (p<0.0001), but there was no difference in flexed posture with maximum posterior PT. The hips with cam morphology had reduced internal hip rotation in all three positions, but they responded to the changes in position in a similar manner to hips without cam morphology.

Conclusion

Dynamic changes in PT significantly influence hip ROM in young people, independent of cam or no-cam morphology.

Decreased Hip Internal Rotation Increases the Risk of Back and Abdominal Muscle Injuries in Professional Baseball Players: Analysis of 258 Player-seasons

INTRODUCTION

The relationship of hip range of motion (ROM) to shoulder, elbow, abdominal, and back injuries remains undefined.

METHODS

We assessed hip ROM on players reporting to Major League Spring Training for an organization over six seasons (2010 to 2015). Hip ROM was correlated with player abdominal, back, shoulder, and elbow injury status for those seasons using multivariate binomial logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 258 player-seasons (129 pitchers and 129 position players) resulted in 20 back and 35 abdominal injuries across all players and 28 elbow and 25 shoulder injuries in pitchers. Hip ROM did not correlate with shoulder or elbow injuries. Hip internal rotation deficit of 5° correlated with core injury (odds ratio [OR], 1.40; P = 0.024 for pitchers; OR, 1.35; P = 0.026 for position players) and back injury (OR, 1.160; P = 0.022 for pitchers).

DISCUSSION

Hip internal rotation deficits were predictive of back and abdominal injuries but not shoulder or elbow injury.

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.

Clinical and biomechanical outcomes of rehabilitation targeting intersegmental control in athletic groin pain: prospective cohort of 205 patients

Background

Clinical assessments and rehabilitation in athletic groin pain (AGP) have focused on specific anatomical structures and uniplanar impairments rather than whole body movement.

Objective

To examine the effectiveness of rehabilitation that targeted intersegmental control in patients with AGP and to investigate post rehabilitation changes in cutting biomechanics.

Methods

Two hundred and five patients with AGP were rehabilitated focusing on clinical assessment of intersegmental control, linear running and change of direction mechanics in this prospective case series. Hip and Groin Outcome Score (HAGOS) was the primary outcome measure. Secondary measures included pain-free return to play rates and times, pain provocation on squeeze tests and three-dimensional (3D) biomechanical analysis during a 110° cutting manoeuvre.

Results

Following rehabilitation, patients demonstrated clinically relevant improvements in HAGOS scores (effect size (ES): 0.6–1.7). 73% of patients returned to play pain-free at a mean of 9.9 weeks (±3.5). Squeeze test values also improved (ES: 0.49–0.68). Repeat 3D analysis of the cutting movement demonstrated reductions in ipsilateral trunk side flexion (ES: 0.79) and increased pelvic rotation in the direction of travel (ES: 0.76). Changes to variables associated with improved cutting performance: greater centre of mass translation in the direction of travel relative to centre of pressure (ES: 0.4), reduced knee flexion angle (ES: 0.3) and increased ankle plantar flexor moment (ES: 0.48) were also noted.

Conclusions

Rehabilitation focused on intersegmental control was associated with improved HAGOS scores, high rates of pain-free return to sporting participation and biomechanical changes associated with improved cutting performance across a range of anatomical diagnoses seen in AGP.

Cam morphology and inguinal pathologies: is there a possible connection?

Background

To analyse the prevalences of the cam and pincer morphologies in a cohort of patients with groin pain syndrome caused by inguinal pathologies.

Materials and methods

Forty-four patients (40 men and 4 women) who suffered from groin pain syndrome were enrolled in the study. All the patients were radiographically and clinically evaluated following a standardised protocol established by the First Groin Pain Syndrome Italian Consensus Conference on Terminology, Clinical Evaluation and Imaging Assessment in Groin Pain in Athlete. Subsequently, all of the subjects underwent a laparoscopic repair of the posterior inguinal wall.

Results

The study demonstrated an association between the cam morphology and inguinal pathologies in 88.6% of the cases (39 subjects). This relationship may be explained by noting that the cam morphology leads to biomechanical stress at the posterior inguinal wall level.

Conclusions

Athletic subjects who present the cam morphology may be considered a population at risk of developing inguinal pathologies.

Level of evidence

Level IV, Observational cross-sectional study.

Chronic Anterior Pelvic Instability: Diagnosis and Management

Chronic anterior pelvic ring instability can cause pain and disability. Pain typically is localized to the suprapubic area or inner thigh; often is associated with lower back or buttock pain; and may be exacerbated by activity, direct impact, or pelvic ring compression. Known etiologies of chronic anterior pelvic ring instability include pregnancy, parturition, trauma, insufficiency fractures, athletics, prior surgery, and osteitis pubis. Diagnosis often is delayed. Physical examination may reveal an antalgic or waddling gait, tenderness over the pubic bones or symphysis pubis, and pain with provocative maneuvers. AP pelvic radiographs may demonstrate chronic degenerative changes at the pubic symphysis or nonhealing fractures. Standing single leg stance (flamingo view) radiographs can demonstrate pathologic motion at the pubic symphysis. CT may be useful in assessing posterior pelvic ring involvement. The initial management is typically nonsurgical and may include the use of an orthosis, activity modification, medication, and physical therapy. If nonsurgical modalities are unsuccessful, surgery may be warranted, although little evidence exists to guide treatment. Surgical intervention may include internal fixation alone in select patients, the addition of bone graft to fixation, or symphyseal arthrodesis. In some patients, additional stabilization or arthrodesis of the posterior pelvic ring may be indicated.

Is lower hip range of motion a risk factor for groin pain in athletes? A systematic review with clinical applications

BACKGROUND

Whether hip range of motion (ROM) is a risk factor for groin pain in athletes is not known.

OBJECTIVES

To systematically review the relationship between hip ROM and groin pain in athletes in cross-sectional/case-control and prospective studies.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review, prospectively registered (PROSPERO) according to PRISMA guidelines.

METHODS

Pubmed, Embase, CINAHL and SPORTDiscus were systematically searched up to December 2015. Two authors performed study selection, data extraction/analysis, quality assessment (Critical Appraisal Skills Programme) and strength of evidence synthesis.

RESULTS

We identified seven prospective and four case-control studies. The total quality score ranged from 29% to 92%. Heterogeneity in groin pain classification, injury definitions and physical assessment precluded data pooling. There was strong evidence that total rotation of both hips below 85° measured at the pre-season screening was a risk factor for groin pain development. Strong evidence suggested that internal rotation, abduction and extension were not associated with the risk or presence of groin pain.

CONCLUSION

Total hip ROM is the factor most consistently related to groin pain in athletes. Screening for hip ROM is unlikely to correctly identify an athlete at risk of developing groin pain because of the small ROM differences found and poor ROM measurement properties.

Performance and Return to Sport After Sports Hernia Surgery in NFL Players

Background:

Recognition, diagnosis, and treatment of athletic pubalgia (AP), also known as sports hernia, once underrecognized and undertreated in professional football, are becoming more common. Surgery as the final treatment for sports hernia when nonsurgical treatment fails remains controversial. Given the money involved and popularity of the National Football League (NFL), it is important to understand surgical outcomes in this patient population.

Hypothesis:

After AP surgery, players would: (1) return to sport (RTS) at a greater than 90% rate, (2) play fewer games for fewer years than matched controls, (3) have no difference in performance compared with before AP surgery, and (4) have no difference in performance versus matched controls.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Internet-based injury reports identified players who underwent AP surgery from January 1996 to August 2015. Demographic and performance data were collected for each player. A 1:1 matched control group and an index year analog were identified. Control and case performance scores were calculated using a standardized scoring system. Groups were compared using paired Student t tests.

Results:

Fifty-six NFL players (57 AP surgeries) were analyzed (mean age, 28.2 ± 3.1 years; mean years in NFL at surgery, 5.4 ± 3.2). Fifty-three players were able to RTS. Controls were in the NFL longer (P < .05) than players who underwent AP surgery (3.8 ± 2.4 vs 3.2 ± 2.1 years). Controls played more games per season (P < .05) than post-AP players (14.0 ± 2.3 vs 12.0 ± 3.4 games per season). There was no significant (P > .05) difference in pre- versus post-AP surgery performance scores and no significant (P > .05) difference in postoperative performance scores versus controls post-index.

Conclusion:

There was a high RTS rate after AP surgery without a significant difference in postoperative performance, though career length and games per season after AP surgery were significantly less than that of matched controls.

Athletic Hip Injuries

Historically, athletic hip injuries have garnered little attention; however, these injuries account for approximately 6% of all sports injuries and their prevalence is increasing. At times, the diagnosis and management of hip injuries can be challenging and elusive for the team physician. Hip injuries are seen in high-level athletes who participate in cutting and pivoting sports that require rapid acceleration and deceleration. Described previously as the "sports hip triad," these injuries consist of adductor strains, osteitis pubis, athletic pubalgia, or core muscle injury, often with underlying range-of-motion limitations secondary to femoroacetabular impingement. These disorders can happen in isolation but frequently occur in combination. To add to the diagnostic challenge, numerous intra-articular disorders and extra-articular soft-tissue restraints about the hip can serve as pain generators, in addition to referred pain from the lumbar spine, bowel, bladder, and reproductive organs. Athletic hip conditions can be debilitating and often require a timely diagnosis to provide appropriate intervention.

Editorial Commentary: The Hip Bone's Connected to the Knee Bone, but Correlation Does Not Equal Causation-The Association of Hip Motion, Femoroacetabular Impingement, and Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury

Patients with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury had significantly less hip rotational motion (internal rotation [IR] and sum of IR and external rotation) than control subjects without ACL tears. For each hip IR increase of 10°, the odds of sustaining an ACL rupture decreased by a factor of 0.419. Although this investigation does not prove (causation) that loss of hip rotational motion causes an ACL tear, it does continue to complement the growing and evolving literature base showing an upstream or downstream association (correlation) of decreased hip motion on adjacent structures.

Editorial Commentary: The Hip Bone's Connected to the Spine Bone-But Correlation Does Not Equal Causation

A significant correlation was observed between the degree of lumbar spine arthritis and 2 quantitative markers of cam morphology (alpha angle and anterior femoral head-neck offset) in a large osteological collection of cadaveric lumbar spine and femurs. Although this study does not prove causation, it does impart further insight into the "hip-spine syndrome" in nonarthritic hips with proximal femoral asphericity.

Epidemiological profile of patients diagnosed with athletic pubalgia

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of pubalgia in patients from a Sports Medicine Center.

METHODS

Data analysis from medical records of patients with athletic pubalgia attended to from January 2007 to January 2015. The diagnosis was made by an experienced hip surgeon, complemented with pelvic X-ray, abdominal wall ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging of the pelvis.

RESULTS

Among 43 patients, 42 were men, with mean age of 33 years. As for sports, 25 (58.1%) athletes were soccer players and 13 (30.2%) were runners; 37.2% were professional athletes. Inguinal hernia was diagnosed in 20.9% of patients, showing the importance of its routine search in these patients. Treatment duration ranged from 1 to 12 months and 95.2% of the patients returned to sport.

CONCLUSION

This study presented the epidemiological characteristics of patients diagnosed with athletic pubalgia attended to in a reference medical center and demonstrated the prevalence of this lesion in male patients, soccer players and runners. It also disclosed a high success rate of the nonoperative treatment, and high rate of return to sport after treatment.