Hip Manipulation Increases Electromyography Amplitude and Hip Joint Performance: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Study

Abstract

(1) Background: Activation of the gluteus medius (GM) muscle while minimizing the involvement of the tensor fascia latae (TFL) is crucial in treating many lower limb and lumbar spine injuries. Previous studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of joint manipulations in regulating muscle activity. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of hip joint manipulation (HJM) on the muscle strength and activity (GM and TFL) of hip abductors in asymptomatic young participants. (2) Methods: The study followed a double-blind randomized controlled design. Thirty healthy, physically active women and men, free from spinal and lower limb injuries, voluntarily participated. The participants were allocated to two groups: those allocated to the HJM intervention and those in the control group receiving a sham intervention. They were assessed before and after the intervention using surface electromyography to measure muscle activation (EMGRMS) of the GM and TFL during maximal voluntary isometric hip abduction. (3) Results: HJM resulted in a significant increase in EMGRMS amplitude solely within the GM muscle (p < 0.01); (4) Conclusions: This study suggests that HJM may increase EMGRMS amplitude in the GM muscle; however, the effects are neither statistically nor clinically significant when compared to the control group for most of the muscles analyzed.

Keywords

• musculoskeletal manipulations
• hip joint
• gluteus medius
• superficial electromyography