Effect of Hip Mobilization with Movement in Weight Bearing Position on Mobility of Hip Internal Rotation

Background The limitation of hip internal rotation (IR) is a risk factor for various musculoskeletal disorders. However, there has been no study yet on comparison of MWM (mobilization with movement) in non-WBP (weight-bearing position) and WBP and for increasing hip IR. Purpose The purpose of this study was to compare the immediate effects of MWM in non-WBP and WBP and for increasing hip IR. Study design One group pre- and post-design. Methods Fifteen subjects with limited hip IR participated in two interventions: MWM in WBP and in non-WBP. The outcome measures included the passive seated internal rotation test (SIRT) and functional internal rotation test (FIRT) and for the hip. The measurements were taken immediately before and after the interventions. Results For SIRT and FIRT, no significant differences were noted between MWM type (non-WBP vs WBP) (p>.05). For SIRT, MWM techniques did not increase significantly the hip IR range of motion however, for FIRT, both MWM in non-WBP and WBP improve significantly the hip IR range of motion. Conclusions Both hip MWM have treatment effects on functional hip IR. Therapists may consider patient’s comfort when selecting the most appropriate MWM technique to treat functional limitation of hip IR range of motion.