The effectiveness of the Copenhagen adduction exercise on improving eccentric hip adduction strength among soccer players with groin injury: a randomized controlled trial
Ahmed A. Alsirhani, Qassim I. Muaidi, Shibili Nuhmani, Kristian Thorborg, Mohamed A. Husain, Wesam Saleh A. Al Attar
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Groin injuries are common in soccer players and often involve adductor muscle strains. The Copenhagen Adduction Exercise (CAE) is a targeted intervention whose effectiveness in rehabilitation for these injuries warrants investigation. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the impact of a rehabilitation program, which includes the CAE, on eccentric hip adduction (EHAD) strength, hip joint range of motion (ROM), self-reported disability, and pain among soccer players with adductor-related groin pain. It was hypothesized that the addition of CAE to the rehabilitation program would yield greater improvements. METHODS: = 15), based on a power analysis to ensure 80% power to detect significant differences. Both groups engaged in their respective rehabilitation programs twice a week for eight weeks. The primary outcome measured was EHAD strength, while secondary outcomes included hip joint ROM, self-reported disability measured by the Copenhagen Hip and Groin Outcome Score (HAGOS), and pain levels. RESULTS: < 0.001). The IG demonstrated a greater increase in EHAD strength (Mean Difference [MD] = 0.49 Nm/kg, 95% Confidence Interval [CI] [0.31, 0.66]), a more pronounced reduction in pain (MD = -1.60, 95% CI [-2.18, -1.02]), and betterment in all HAGOS subscale scores compared to the CG. There were no significant between-group differences in hip joint ROM. CONCLUSION: Incorporating the CAE into rehabilitation programs significantly improves EHAD strength, decreases pain scores, and reduces self-reported disability in soccer players with adductor-related groin pain. REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT05589623.