Comparison of Core Stability and Hip Muscular Strength in Selected Collegiate Football Players with and without Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS)

Abstract

Background: Muscular imbalance in the core and hip is one of the major risk factors associated with PFPS. There is evidence that decreased strength of the hip musculature is present in individuals with PFPS. This decrease in hip strength can also affect the stability of the core and further predisposes an athlete to injury. Objectives: This is a cross-sectional study that compares the hip muscle strength and core stability of collegiate football players with and without PFPS. Methods: 25 participants (10 with PFPS and 15 without PFPS) participated in the study. Hip strength was measured using a digital handheld dynamometer. Core stability was assessed through the McGill Core Strength test and the 8-stage stability test. Results: The hip adductors showed to be significantly weaker in those with PFPS as compared to those without PFPS (p=0.040). No differences were found in the hip flexor (p=0.812), hip extensor (p=0.460) and abductors (p=0.126) strength while the core musculature showed that there is a statistically significant difference on the endurance of the lateral core musculature (p<0.001) and trunk flexors (p=0.027) between the two groups. Conclusion: Football athletes without PFPS in this study demonstrated greater core stability and hip adductor muscle strength compared to those without PFPS.