Context:Athletic pelvic and groin injuries are a common yet challenging problem. Pelvic belts have been successfully used to reduce pain and improve function but are not a practical solution for athletes. Therefore, there is scope to explore the use of a more dynamic intervention developed to aid in the management of this type of injury.Objectives:To undertake a preliminary investigation into the effectiveness of a dynamic elastomeric fabric orthosis (DEFO) in supporting the management of athletic pelvic and groin injury.Design:A case series with an AB design. Daily assessments were undertaken over 15 days; the onset of intervention was randomized with a minimum baseline period of 6 d. Follow-up assessment was undertaken after 1 mo.Settings:Community and university.Participants:8 athletes presenting with pelvic or groin injury confirmed through clinical screening.Intervention:A bespoke DEFO.Main Outcome Measures:Force produced on bilateral resisted hip adduction and self-scored pain (using a numerical rating scale of 0–10) at rest and during an active straight-leg raise and a broad jump.Results:In 7 cases a significant improvement was observed on at least 1 measure (2-SD method, celeration line, and/or the point of nonoverlapping data). The remaining case showed minimal symptoms during testing.
Results suggest application of diagonal forces towards the site of pain may have additional benefits in improving pain and function. Such information may inform the development of an orthosis. Clinical relevance The results may be used clinically to determine the effectiveness of different belt placements (with belts or straps) in managing athletic lumbopelvic pain. The results offer an alternative to the application of transverse belts, and may inform new approaches in the development of orthotics.
The protocol was feasible. Effect sizes and recruitment/attrition rates suggest that the intervention holds promise and that a future definitively powered randomized controlled trial appears feasible and is indicated.
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