Hip Adductor, Abductor Muscles Strength, and Performance in Participants with and without Low Back Pain

Weakness of hip muscles is common in individuals with chronic non-specific low back pain (CNSLBP). Also, hip joint performance can be influenced by the weakness of hip muscles. This study aimed to compare the strength and performance of hip adductor and abductor muscles between subjects with and without CNSLBP and to investigate their association with disability level.

This case-control study included 41 participants with CNSLBP and 41 healthy participants. The strength of hip abductor and adductor muscles were measured using a dynamometer and their performance was assessed using the one-leg hop test. The disability level in the CNSLBP group was assessed using the oswestry disability index (ODI). Data were analyzed using an independent sample t test and Pearson correlation coefficient.

No significant differences were observed between groups for hip muscle strength. One-leg hop test scores of the left lower extremity in the lateral direction were significantly higher in the CNSLBP group compared to the control group. Also, no significant relationships were observed between the total score of ODI and hip muscle strength or performance in the CNSLBP group.

It’s recommended that evaluation and exercise therapy of participants with CNSLBP be performed during functional performance tasks.