Effects of a high-force hip lateral distraction mobilization in individuals with hip-related groin pain: a randomized controlled trial.

INTRODUCTION

Individuals with hip-related groin pain typically present reduced hip range of motion (ROM), particularly hip internal rotation. This movement restriction may increase stress on pelvic structures contributing to pain, altered muscle function, and reduced physical function, thereby affecting quality of life (QoL). Manual therapy techniques aimed at improving hip ROM may therefore have beneficial effects in this population. The objective of this study is to compare the effects of a high-force hip lateral distraction mobilization to a sham hip lateral distraction mobilization in individuals with hip-related groin pain.

METHODS

A double- blind randomized controlled trial was conducted. Thirty-five individuals with hip-related groin pain were randomized into an experimental group (EG) or a sham group (SG). Both groups performed four sessions (two per week) over two consecutive weeks. The primary outcomes were pain intensity and passive hip ROM. The secondary outcomes were muscle function, physical function, QoL, and self-perceived improvement. Data were collected at baseline and post-treatment.

RESULTS

Significant between-group differences in favor of EG were found at post-treatment for pain intensity (in the last week, in sport activities, and in pain provocation tests); peak asymptomatic force and peak force in the squeeze test; passive hip ROM (except for adduction); physical function (sport and recreation, and participation physical activities); QoL; and self-perceived improvement.

CONCLUSION

High-force hip lateral distraction mobilization was more effective than sham hip lateral distraction mobilization for improving pain intensity, force in the squeeze test, passive hip ROM, physical function, and QoL in individuals with hip-related groin pain.