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.

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