Prevalence of Femoroacetabular Impingement Symptoms in Football Players with Chronic Adductor-Related Groin Pain
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61919/cn4rz128Keywords:
Femoroacetabular impingement, groin pain, football players, hip range of motion, adductor strength, prevalenceAbstract
Background: Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is increasingly recognized as a significant contributor to chronic adductor-related groin pain (CARGP) among football players. The repetitive loading, cutting, and kicking inherent to the sport may predispose athletes to intra-articular hip pathology, yet the extent of symptom prevalence and its clinical correlates remains insufficiently explored. Objective: To determine the prevalence of FAI symptoms among football players with CARGP and examine associations with hip range of motion (ROM), adductor strength, pain characteristics, and functional outcomes. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 152 male football players aged 18–35 years presenting with CARGP lasting ≥6 weeks. Clinical assessment included the FADIR and Adductor Squeeze Tests, manual muscle testing, hip ROM measurement, and Hip Outcome Score (HOS). Pain intensity, location, and aggravating activities were recorded. Chi-square tests examined associations between categorical variables and FAI symptoms. Results: FAI symptoms were present in 74.3% of players. Significant associations were found between FAI and positive FADIR (69.1%, p<0.05), Adductor Squeeze (65.8%, p<0.05), reduced hip flexion (90°–100°, p<0.001), limited internal/external rotation (<30°, p<0.001), and lower adductor strength grades (χ²=13.9, p=0.016). Moderate-to-severe pain during activity (χ²=7.9, p=0.020) further predicted symptoms. Mean HOS (2.43) indicated mild-to-moderate impairment despite ongoing play. Conclusion: FAI symptoms are highly prevalent in football players with CARGP, significantly associated with reduced ROM, adductor weakness, and greater pain severity. Comprehensive screening and targeted interventions may reduce chronicity and preserve athletic performance.
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