| dc.description.abstract | Aim: The primary aim of this study was to investigate differences in hip muscle strength between patients with Achilles tendinopathy (ATP) and asymptomatic controls.
Methods: Strength of the hip abductors, external rotators, and extensors was measured in a group of males with chronic mid-portion ATP and a group of matched asymptomatic controls. Isometric strength was measured using a hand-held dynamometer. Functional strength of the hip musculature was measured with the single-leg squat. Besides strength measures, patients with ATP completed the Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment – Achilles to determine clinical severity of their symptoms.
Results: A total of 11 subjects with ATP (median age 52 years, interquartile range [IQR] 42-53) and 11 asymptomatic controls (median age 49 years, IQR 40-54) were included. Subjects with ATP demonstrated 30.8% less isometric abduction strength (p = 0.016), 40% less external rotation strength (p = 0.013), and 36.8% less hip extension strength (p = 0.050) when compared to the asymptomatic controls. No significant differences were found in functional strength between groups.
Conclusion: Our results indicate that male patients presenting with chronic mid-portion ATP demonstrate significantly less isometric strength of their hip abductors and external rotators compared with matched asymptomatic controls. No differences in functional hip muscle strength were found.
Clinical Relevance Decreased hip muscle strength in patients with ATP may cause altered lower extremity biomechanics, resulting in increased Achilles tendon loading. Further research investigating the exact relationship between hip muscle strength and ATP, and the possible implications for rehabilitation programs is warranted. | |
