Original Articles Vol. 3 No. 01 (2026): Bioscience Insights Published 2026-06-30

ASSOCIATION BETWEEN HIP INTERNAL ROTATION RANGE OF MOTION AND GROIN PAIN AMONG FOOTBALL PLAYERS IN PESHAWAR

Authors

  • Ali Khan University of Chester ROR Pakistan Author
  • Shahid Rahman University of Chester ROR Pakistan Author
  • Raja Muhammad Nouman S University of Chester ROR Pakistan Author
  • Bahar Ali Lecturer and Clinical Incharge Isra University Islamabad campus Pakistan Author
  • Rooh Ullah Burn Center HMC Peshawar Pakistan Author
  • Sameer Ahmad Siddiqui Fitnes Rehab Physio Clinic FRPC Pakistan Author
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Abstract

Background: Groin pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints among football players, with reported prevalence rates exceeding those of most other lower-limb injuries in the sport. Reduced hip internal rotation range of motion (ROM) has been proposed as a contributing biomechanical factor, as restricted rotational mobility may increase compensatory stress at the pubic symphysis, adductor origin, and surrounding hip musculature during kicking, cutting, and pivoting movements.

Objective: To determine the association between hip internal rotation range of motion and groin pain among football players.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 200 male football players recruited from local football clubs and academies. Hip internal rotation ROM was measured using a universal goniometer in the prone position. Groin pain and its functional impact were assessed using the Copenhagen Hip and Groin Outcome Score (HAGOS) and pain intensity using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS). Descriptive statistics and the independent samples t-test, Pearson/Spearman correlation, and Chi-square test were used for analysis via SPSS v.26.

Results: Groin pain (NPRS ≥ 1 with HAGOS impairment) was reported by 96 (48.0%) of players. Mean hip internal rotation ROM was significantly lower in players with groin pain (24.6° ± 6.8°) compared to those without (33.2° ± 7.1°; p < 0.001). A significant negative correlation was found between hip internal rotation ROM and NPRS pain score (r = -0.58, p < 0.001), and reduced ROM (<25°) was significantly associated with the presence of groin pain (p < 0.001).

Conclusion: Restricted hip internal rotation range of motion is significantly associated with groin pain among football players. Routine hip ROM screening and targeted mobility interventions are recommended as part of injury prevention programmes in football.

Keywords

  • Hip internal rotation, range of motion, groin pain, football players, goniometer, HAGOS, Numeric Pain Rating Scale, sports physiotherapy

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