Core Stability Training for Young Gymnasts With Adductor Strain

Adductor muscle strain is a common cause of groin pain in young athletes, particularly in gymnasts who frequently perform movements that require extreme hip flexibility and strength. Muscle imbalance around the hip joint and reduced core stability may increase the risk of adductor injuries. This randomized clinical trial aims to investigate the effect of adding core stability training to a traditional physiotherapy rehabilitation program on the hip adduction-abduction strength ratio in young gymnasts with adductor muscle strain. Thirty-six young gymnasts aged 7-10 years with Grade I or II adductor strain will be randomly assigned to two groups. Both groups will receive a traditional physiotherapy rehabilitation program for eight weeks, while the study group will also perform additional core stability exercises. Outcomes will include hip adductor and abductor strength measured using a hand-held dynamometer, pain intensity assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and hip and groin function evaluated using the Copenhagen Hip and Groin Outcome Score (HAGOS). The findings of this study may help determine whether adding core stability training improves rehabilitation outcomes in young gymnasts with adductor muscle strain.