Date of Paper/Work
4-2016
Type of Paper/Work
Research Project
Degree Name
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
Department
Physical Therapy
First Advisor
Paul E. Niemuth
Abstract
Background and Purpose
The purpose of this study was to determine if there was a relationship between hamstring and/or hip mobility and/or weakness that affects SI joint dysfunction (SIJD). Due to anatomical proximity, the hamstring muscle could potentially be involved in SIJD because of the muscle’s attachment site on the pelvis. In addition, problems that occur within the hip joint are in near proximity to the SIJ. There is limited literature exploring these relationships of hip and hamstring abnormalities with SIJ pathology and provided an area of research to explore.
Methods
Two patients referred to a physical therapy clinic with medical diagnosis of SIJD, were analyzed and compared to the control group. Passive goniometric measurements at the hip were taken for flexion, abduction, internal rotation, and external rotation, as well as hamstring length. Strength measurements for the hip flexors, extensors, abductors, external rotators, internal rotators, and knee flexors were taken with a handheld dynamometer. Measurements were taken during the initial evaluation, so the physical therapist administering the tests was not blinded to the patients’ diagnoses.
Results
When comparing the affected SIJ side to the unaffected side, a difference was found in both hip and hamstring strength side to side. No difference was found in hamstring length or hip ROM when comparing side to side.
Conclusion
There seems to be a relationship between SIJD and decreased strength in the ipsilateral hamstrings and hip musculature. However, the low number of patients in this series limits this conclusion, and future research with more patients is required to draw stronger conclusions.
Recommended Citation
DuPlissis, Sarah; Hedden, Rachel; Manning, Nicholas; Patterson, Josh; and Wahlstrom, Luke. (2016). The Effect of Hip and Hamstring Pathology on Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction: A Case Series. Retrieved from Sophia, the St. Catherine University repository website: https://sophia.stkate.edu/dpt_papers/52