An evidence-based review of hip-focused neuromuscular exercise interventions to address dynamic lower extremity valgus.
Deficits in proximal hip strength or neuromuscular control may lead to dynamic lower extremity valgus. Measures of dynamic lower extremity valgus have been previously shown to relate to increased risk of several knee pathologies, specifically anterior cruciate ligament ruptures and patellofemoral pain. Therefore, hip-focused interventions have gained considerable attention and been successful in addressing these knee pathologies. The purpose of the review was to identify and discuss hip-focused exercise interventions that aim to address dynamic lower extremity valgus. Previous electromyography, kinematics, and kinetics research support the use of targeted hip exercises with non-weight-bearing, controlled weight-bearing, functional exercise, and, to a lesser extent, dynamic exercises in reducing dynamic lower extremity valgus. Further studies should be developed to identify and understand the mechanistic relationship between optimized biomechanics during sports and hip-focused neuromuscular exercise interventions.
Department of Physical Therapy, High Point University, High Point, NC, USA.
Kevin R
KR
Ford
Department of Athletic Training, School of Health Sciences, High Point University, High Point, NC, USA.
Anh-Dung
AD
Nguyen
Department of Physical Therapy, High Point University, High Point, NC, USA.
Steven L
SL
Dischiavi
Department of Physical Therapy, High Point University, High Point, NC, USA.
Eric J
EJ
Hegedus
Department of Athletic Training, School of Health Sciences, High Point University, High Point, NC, USA.
Emma F
EF
Zuk
Department of Physical Therapy, High Point University, High Point, NC, USA.
Jeffrey B
JB
Taylor
ACL injury rehabilitation; dynamic lower extremity valgus; hip muscular activation; hip neuromuscular control; patellofemoral pain