Comparative Effects of Post Isometric Relaxation Technique and Copenhagen Adductor Strengthening Exercise Program for Functional Disability Management in Athletes With Groin Injury

Background: Groin injuries are highly prevalent in athletes, particularly in sports requiring sprinting, kicking, or sudden directional changes, and are associated with significant pain, functional limitations, and time loss from play. Conservative physiotherapy-based interventions such as Copenhagen Adduction Exercises (CAE) and Post-Isometric Relaxation (PIR) have shown potential therapeutic benefits. However, evidence directly comparing their effectiveness in reducing pain and improving function in athletes with groin injuries remains limited, underscoring the need for further clinical evaluation. Objective: To compare the effects of CAE and PIR on pain intensity and functional disability among athletes presenting with groin injuries. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted on 40 professional athletes aged 18–27 years who met specific inclusion criteria. Participants were randomly allocated into two groups of 20 each. Group A received PIR combined with routine physical therapy, while Group B received CAE alongside routine physical therapy. Interventions were delivered three times per week for six weeks. Pain was measured using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), symptoms were assessed through the Oslo Sports Trauma Research Center (OSTRC) Overuse Injury Questionnaire, and functional outcomes were evaluated with the Copenhagen Hip and Groin Outcome Score (HAGOS). Assessments were performed at baseline, three weeks, and six weeks. Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA and independent sample t-tests with a significance threshold of p ≤ 0.05. Results: The mean NPRS at baseline was 3.70 in the PIR group and 3.55 in the CAE group, with reductions to 2.80 and 1.60 respectively by week six (p = 0.000). OSTRC scores improved from 3.80 to 2.95 in the PIR group and from 3.95 to 1.00 in the CAE group (p = 0.000). HAGOS scores decreased from 4.40 to 3.20 in the PIR group and from 4.00 to 1.15 in the CAE group (p = 0.000). Both groups improved significantly over time; however, CAE demonstrated superior outcomes across all measures. Conclusion: Both CAE and PIR effectively reduced pain and functional disability in athletes with groin injuries, but CAE yielded significantly greater improvements. These findings highlight the clinical value of eccentric adductor strengthening as an effective rehabilitation strategy for athletes.