This 2005 narrative review by Willson et al. synthesizes biomechanical and clinical evidence on core stability. It defines core stability as the ability of the lumbopelvic-hip complex to prevent vertebral buckling and return to equilibrium after perturbation. The review examines how proximal muscle deficits relate to lower extremity injury risk and outlines clinical testing and intervention strategies.
Patellofemoral pain, iliotibial band syndrome, and ACL injury in female athletes were historically managed at the symptomatic joint. This review consolidates the evidence that the proximal driver — hip abductor and external rotator weakness. Is measurable before injury occurs and is modifiable with targeted training.
When you see a young female athlete with anterior knee pain or recurrent IT band symptoms, test hip abductor and external rotator strength first. A 26-36% deficit versus controls is not incidental; it is the mechanical explanation for why her femur collapses into adduction under load.
Prescribe hip abductor and external rotator strengthening as a primary intervention, not an afterthought. The Fredericson data (92% pain-free at 6 weeks) and Hewett data (72% reduction in knee ligament injuries) give you evidence-based targets to quote to patients and coaches.
The Leetun prospective cohort is what makes preseason screening actionable: athletes who are weak in these planes before the season starts are the ones who get hurt.
This 2005 narrative review by Willson et al. synthesizes biomechanical and clinical evidence on core stability. It defines core stability as the ability of the lumbopelvic-hip complex to prevent vertebral buckling and return to equilibrium after perturbation. The review examines how proximal muscle deficits relate to lower extremity injury risk and outlines clinical testing and intervention strategies.
Patellofemoral pain, iliotibial band syndrome, and ACL injury in female athletes were historically managed at the symptomatic joint. This review consolidates the evidence that the proximal driver — hip abductor and external rotator weakness. Is measurable before injury occurs and is modifiable with targeted training.
When you see a young female athlete with anterior knee pain or recurrent IT band symptoms, test hip abductor and external rotator strength first. A 26-36% deficit versus controls is not incidental; it is the mechanical explanation for why her femur collapses into adduction under load.
Prescribe hip abductor and external rotator strengthening as a primary intervention, not an afterthought. The Fredericson data (92% pain-free at 6 weeks) and Hewett data (72% reduction in knee ligament injuries) give you evidence-based targets to quote to patients and coaches.
The Leetun prospective cohort is what makes preseason screening actionable: athletes who are weak in these planes before the season starts are the ones who get hurt.