Efficacy of Ultrasound-Guided Percutaneous Electrolysis for Hip Pain in Male Ice Hockey Players
Trial statusRecruiting
Trial phaseNot applicable
Trial typeInterventional
Biological sexMale
Age18-21
SponsorVeronique Vidal
About this trial
Groin pain is a common and limiting condition in ice hockey players, often related to the high mechanical demands placed on the hip during skating. Repetitive movements involving hip flexion, abduction, and rotation may contribute to functional impairment and persistent symptoms.
Recent clinical interest has focused on the relationship between the iliopsoas muscle and the anterior hip capsule, as their close anatomical and functional interaction may play a role in the development of hip-related groin pain.
Percutaneous needle electrolysis (PNE) is a minimally invasive, ultrasound-guided technique used to promote tissue remodeling and pain reduction in musculoskeletal conditions. However, its application to the anterior hip capsule has not yet been investigated.
This pilot experimental study aims to evaluate the effects of three sessions of PNE applied to the anterior hip capsule in male ice hockey players with groin pain. The main hypothesis is that this intervention may improve hip function by reducing pain and enhancing mobility and muscle strength.
Outcomes include hip flexor strength, hip flexion range of motion, FADIR test results, and patient-reported outcomes measured with the HAGOS questionnaire. Assessments will be performed before and after the intervention, as well as at a 4-week follow-up.
Eligibility criteria
This trial does not accept healthy volunteersQualifiers
Male ice hockey players (under-21 team)
Age between 18 and 21 years
Presence of groin pain or anterior hip pain
Positive FADIR test
Disqualifiers
Presence of concomitant orthopedic or systemic conditions.
Belonephobia (fear of needles).
Contraindications to invasive physiotherapy techniques (e.g., infection, skin lesions at the treatment site, bleeding disorders, Allergies to metals.)
Use of other concurrent treatments targeting the hip during the study period
Trial design
Design model
Single group
Treatments tested in this trial
Ultrasound-guided musculoskeletal percutaneous electrolysis
Other interventionThe intervention consists of the application of ultrasound-guided musculoskeletal percutaneous electrolysis (PNE) to the anterior capsule of the hip. Under aseptic conditions, including skin disinfection, use of sterile gloves, and a disposable ultrasound probe cover, a single-use needle is inserted under real-time ultrasound guidance toward the anterior hip capsule. The needle is introduced with an oblique approach (approximately 45° relative to the skin) until reaching the target tissue. Once positioned, a controlled galvanic current is applied through the needle to induce a localized electrochemical response aimed at promoting tissue remodeling. Each participant will receive a total of three treatment sessions. The procedure is performed by a qualified clinician experienced in ultrasound-guided invasive physiotherapy techniques.
Treatment groups
6 Participants
are divided into 1 treatment groupGroup A: Percutaneous electrolysis interventionExperimental treatment 1 intervention
Trial outcomes
Primary outcomes
1
Hip and groin symptoms measured with HAGOS questionnaire
Patient-reported outcomes will be assessed using the Hip and Groin Outcome Score (HAGOS), a validated questionnaire composed of six subscales: Symptoms, Pain, Activities of Daily Living, Sport and Recreation, Participation in Physical Activities, and Quality of Life. Scores range from 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating better function and fewer symptoms.
Time frame
Baseline (pre-intervention), 2-3 days post-intervention, and 4-week follow-up2
Hip flexor strength measured with K-Force dynamometer
Isometric maximum strength of the hip flexor muscles will be assessed using a K-Force dynamometer stabilized on a fixed support. Participants will perform maximal voluntary contractions in a standardized supine position with hip and knee flexed at 90°. Three trials will be performed, and the highest value will be recorded in kilograms (kg).
Time frame
Baseline (pre-intervention), immediately post-intervention (after 3 sessions), and 4-week follow-up3
Hip flexion range of motion measured with K-Move device
Passive hip flexion range of motion will be measured in degrees using a K-Move motion sensor positioned on the anterior thigh. The participant will be assessed in a supine position, and the examiner will move the limb passively until the first resistance is perceived. Three measurements will be performed, and the highest value will be recorded.
Time frame
Baseline (pre-intervention), immediately post-intervention, and 4-week follow-up4
FADIR test outcome (positive/negative)
The FADIR (flexion, adduction, internal rotation) test will be performed as a clinical provocation test to assess hip-related groin pain. The test will be considered positive if it reproduces the participant's typical anterior or groin pain. Results will be recorded as a dichotomous outcome (positive/negative).
Time frame
Baseline (pre-intervention), immediately post-intervention, and 4-week follow-upSponsors and contacts
Click on the lead sponsor to view all of their trials.
Veronique Vidal
Lead sponsor
CEU San Pablo University
Sponsor institution
Source ClinicalTrials.gov