Screening of Adductor Related Symptoms in Adolescent Taekwondo Athletes

Screening of Adductor-Related Symptoms and Comparison of Hip Muscle Strength, Range of Motion, and Functional Level Between Symptomatic and Asymptomatic Adolescent Taekwondo Athletes

The goal of this observational study is to learn about the frequency and characteristics of adductor-related groin symptoms in adolescent Taekwondo athletes aged 12-17 years. The main questions it aims to answer are:

How common are adductor-related groin symptoms in adolescent Taekwondo athletes?

Do athletes with these symptoms show differences in hip strength, joint range of motion, or functional level compared to athletes without symptoms?

Participants will complete a brief screening about their groin pain and training habits, followed by:

Clinical tests of the hip and groin region (resisted adduction, palpation, FABER, and FADIR tests)

Strength testing of hip abductor and adductor muscles using a hand-held dynamometer

Range of motion measurements of the hip using a goniometer

A self-reported questionnaire (Copenhagen Hip and Groin Outcome Score - HAGOS) to assess daily activity and sports function

Data from this study will help identify early signs of adductor-related groin problems and guide preventive and rehabilitation strategies for young Taekwondo athletes

Inclusion Criteria: Participants must meet all of the following criteria to be eligible for inclusion:

• Aged between 12 and 17 years.
• Registered as an active Taekwondo athlete at a Sports Club.
• Holds a black belt level (professional) in Taekwondo.
• Has at least 3 years of professional Taekwondo training experience.
• Participates in training sessions at least 5 days per week.
• Able to participate in regular training and competition without restriction.
• Voluntarily agrees to participate and provides informed consent (and parental consent for minors).

Exclusion Criteria: Participants are excluded if they meet any of the following criteria:

• Presence of any orthopedic, neurological, or systemic condition that may affect lower limb function or limit participation in training.
• History of lower extremity surgery (hip, knee, ankle, or foot).
• Current or recent (within the last 6 months) acute lower extremity injury other than groin-related symptoms.
• Refusal or inability to complete the required clinical tests or questionnaires.