The role of hip muscle weakness in lower extremity athletic injuries

Abstract

Abstract Sports medicine practitioners have begun to realise that factors proximal to the site of the injury, such as hip muscle weakness, may play a role in lower extremity injury potential. The purpose of this review is to describe current theories and various levels of evidence supporting hip muscle strengthening and/or weakness and lower extremity athletic injuries. Studies describing normal running mechanics, as well as relationships between hip muscle weakness and lower extremity athletic injuries, are described. Some common examples of hip muscle testing, as well as strengthening and rehabilitation exercises, are displayed. Keywords: hip strength, hip abduction, gluteal muscles, rehabilitation, lower extremity athletic injury. Professor Paul E Niemuth, DSc Dr Paul Niemuth is an Associate Professor in the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program and Assistant Athletic Trainer at The College of St. Catherine in Minneapolis, USA. Dr Niemuth is also a Board Certified Clinical Specialist in both Orthopaedics and Sports. His primary research area is risk factors in lower extremity athletic injuries.