The Relationship of Static and Dynamic Hip Muscle Activation on Running Related Injury Rates in Recreational Runners

Abstract

Running has become an increasingly popular sport and research is necessary to examine the variables associated with running related injury. The purpose of this study was to analyze the overall relationship between static and dynamic hip strength and the rate of running related lower limb injuries in recreational runners. In addition, gender differences in hip muscle activation were analyzed. Surface electromyography was used to quantify static and dynamic hip muscle activation. Statistically significant decreases in muscle activation were observed in the one-mile testing period in both genders. Significant differences in muscle activation were present between genders. Although there was no statistically significant differences in muscle activation between injured and uninjured runners, the trends reported can help guide future researchers. As the running population continues to increase, number of running related injuries will follow. This research has provided evidence for allied health care providers to base future running related injury evaluations.