Comparing an Adductor Fatigue Strength Test with Handheld Dynamometry

Measuring the maximum strength of the adductor musculature, performed manually by a physiotherapist using a dynamometer over a brief working period. To begin the test, the subject should lie in a supine position on a flat surface. Their hip should be positioned at a 0º angle in our case. Ideally, at least three measurements should be taken, including a brief rest (~30 seconds) between each repetition to minimize muscle fatigue.

The dynamometer should be placed between both ankles of the patient, with the forearm of the analyzing physiotherapist positioned in the middle as resistance. The patient should exert as much pressure as possible against the dynamometer, which is held by the physiotherapist, and against the physiotherapist's elbow, as if trying to close their legs like scissors, using their adductor muscles and maintaining the contraction for 5 seconds.

The individual will begin by assuming a side plank position, supported by the elbow, bent, and the forearm (lower arm) on the ground. The hand of the supporting arm is placed on the waist of the side of the lower limb that is to be evaluated (the highest). The evaluated limb is supported by a 0.5-meter high bench at the ankle region, while the opposite limb does not touch the ground, remaining in a semi-flexed position. The subject must control the descent of the pelvis by performing a hip abduction until the pelvis lightly touches the ground, and then return to the initial position by raising the pelvis again. The score is defined as the maximum number of repetitions completed before reaching muscle failure. During the test, participants are instructed to keep both legs parallel and to ensure that the knee of the non-evaluated leg remains in a semi-flexed position. Maintaining the correct alignment of the trunk throughout the exercise is crucial.

Weight (kg)

A questionnaire will be given to every participant to obtain information on groin pain symptoms in the last week. Minimum: 0; Maximum: 100. Higher scores mean better hip and groin health.

Age (in years)

Biological sex

Leg length (in cm from the anterior superior iliac spine to the medial malleoulus)

Height (in cm)

Previous groin injury (in the last 3 months)