Measured hip joint range of motion loss and its role in the pathogenesis of the athletic groin injury osteitis pubis

• Published in: Journal of science and medicine in sport 2003-12, Vol.6 (4), p.93-93
• Main Authors: Verrall, G, Hamilton, I, Slavotinek, J, Oakeshott, R, Spriggins, A, Barnes, P, Fon, G
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 1440-2440; 1878-1861
• DOI: 10.1016/S1440-2440(03)80209-8

It is uncertain whether reduction of hip joint range of motion occurs in osteitis pubis and if so whether it precedes, or is due to, the injury. The purpose of this study was to establish whether there is a reduction of hip range of motion in athletes with osteitis pubis. Additionally the role of the reduction of hip range of motion in athletes that subsequently develop an episode of osteitis pubis was also investigated. Eighty-nine Australian Rules footballers underwent, with clinical history unknown, clinical and MRI examination of the groin region. End-range internal and external rotation hip motion was measured using a goniometer. Athletes with and without symptoms and signs were compared. Asymptomatic athletes were followed for 4 seasons for the future development of osteitis pubis. Using clinical and MR criteria for diagnosis osteitis pubis was considered present in 47 athletes, 13 had prior groin injury history with 29 being asymptomatic. Six of the asymptomatic group subsequently developed osteitis pubis. A reduction of hip range of motion was shown in athletes with osteitis pubis(p