The Use of a Dynamic Elastomeric Fabric Orthosis in Supporting the Management of Athletic Pelvic and Groin Injury

Abstract

<jats:sec sec-type="context"><jats:title>Context:</jats:title><jats:p>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.</jats:p></jats:sec><jats:sec sec-type="objectives"><jats:title>Objectives:</jats:title><jats:p>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.</jats:p></jats:sec><jats:sec sec-type="design"><jats:title>Design:</jats:title><jats:p>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.</jats:p></jats:sec><jats:sec sec-type="settings"><jats:title>Settings:</jats:title><jats:p>Community and university.</jats:p></jats:sec><jats:sec sec-type="participants"><jats:title>Participants:</jats:title><jats:p>8 athletes presenting with pelvic or groin injury confirmed through clinical screening.</jats:p></jats:sec><jats:sec sec-type="intervention"><jats:title>Intervention:</jats:title><jats:p>A bespoke DEFO.</jats:p></jats:sec><jats:sec sec-type="main outcome measures"><jats:title>Main Outcome Measures:</jats:title><jats:p>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.</jats:p></jats:sec><jats:sec sec-type="results"><jats:title>Results:</jats:title><jats:p>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.</jats:p></jats:sec>