Hip Activation vs. Hip Activation + Core Stabilization

Comparison of a Hip Activation Versus a Combined Hip Activation and Core Stabilization Program on Improving Lower Extremity Function: A Single-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial

The purpose of this investigation is to compare the effects of a combined hip activation and core stabilization training home exercise program (HEP) versus a hip activation training HEP alone on lower extremity (LE) frontal plane mechanics in healthy individuals.

Specific Aim 1: To determine whether between- and/or within-group differences exist on the Forward Step-Down test (FSDT) when comparing a combined hip activation and core stabilization training HEP as compared to a hip activation training HEP.

Specific Aim 2: To determine whether between- and/or within-group differences exist on the peak external knee abduction moment when comparing a combined hip activation and core stabilization training HEP to a hip activation training HEP.

Specific Aim 3: To determine whether between- and/or within-group differences exist on gluteal and core muscle surface electromyography (sEMG) when comparing a combined hip activation and core stabilization training HEP to a hip activation training HEP.

Specific Aim 4: To determine whether a dose-response relationship exists between HEP compliance and change on the FSDT, peak external knee abduction moment, and sEMG.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Participants will be current first- or second-year Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students in the School of Allied Health Professions (SAHP) at Louisiana State University Health Shreveport over the age of 21.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Current pain or pathology in either LE which currently limits their ability to perform the FSDT or drop landing task, a history of low back pain in the last three months, known pregnancy, as pregnancy is a risk factor for diastasis rectus abdominis (DRA) which may be exacerbated by participation in the intervention and could be a confounding variable, and current participation in other clinical trials.