Correlation between muscle strength and clinical condition in individuals with greater trochanteric pain syndrome: a cross-sectional study

Objective

To elucidate hip muscle strength in regular exercisers diagnosed with Greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS) by comparing it with that in non-exercisers, and investigate whether there is a correlation between hip muscle strength deficits and the clinical condition of individuals with GTPS.

Methods

This cross-sectional, prospective, blinded study assessed muscle strength through maximal isometric contraction and investigated whether it was correlated with clinical outcomes measured using the Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment for Gluteal Tendinopathy (VISA-G) questionnaire and the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain.

Results

In the 46 participants included, a positive, significant, and moderate relationship was noted between hip abductor strength and VISA-G scores (r = 0.542, p < 0.001). Additionally, a significant, weak, negative correlation was found between hip abductor strength and VAS scores (r = - 0.335, p = 0.001). Compared with non-exercisers, exercisers had a significantly lower body mass index (25.18 ± 2.9), experienced less pain (df = 44, t = −3.97, p < 0.001), showed improved functional capacity (U = 109.00, p < 0.001), and had greater hip abductor strength (df = 44, t = 2.78, p = 0.008).

Conclusion

This study demonstrated a significant positive correlation between hip abductor strength and VISA-G scores, as well as a significant, but weak, negative correlation between hip abductor strength and VAS scores in participants with GTPS. Furthermore, compared with non-exercisers, exercisers had superior muscle strength, improved functional capacity, and reported less pain.