Functional Assessment and Treatment of Complex Pubic-Related and Adductor-Related Groin Pain in a Division I College Soccer Player: Case Report

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Recommendations have been made concerning return-to-play interventions and testing for athletes returning from groin injuries. Physical therapists in outpatient clinics often lack standardized assessments that reflect real-time sport participation. This case study describes an objective, functional return-to-sport testing battery for rehabilitation of a soccer athlete. CASE PRESENTATION: A 22-year-old collegiate soccer player presented with groin pain after striking a ball on goal. The patient was assessed using a testing battery of strength testing, Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test (IRT), Pro-Agility Test, and the maximal ball strike velocity. A visual analog scale for pain was recorded and monitored. OUTCOME AND FOLLOW-UP: The patient's pain decreased in all strength testing, and his performance on the Yo-Yo IRT was superior for adult men and male soccer players. The patient completed his collegiate season without symptom recurrence. DISCUSSION: The testing battery of strength testing, Yo-Yo IRT, Pro-Agility Test, and maximal effort strike velocity could be effective for return-to-sport assessment in soccer players with groin pain. JOSPT Cases 2023;3(2):134–143. Epub: 20 April 2023. doi:10.2519/josptcases.2023.11547