Groin PainNCT07527091
Efficacy of Ultrasound-Guided Percutaneous Electrolysis for Hip Pain in Male Ice Hockey Players
A study testing Ultrasound-guided musculoskeletal percutaneous electrolysis in people with Groin Pain and Hip Joint Disorders, run by Veronique Vidal at 1 site in Switzerland.
Trial summary
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. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 18 to 21 years, men only
- Conditions the study is for
- Groin Pain, Hip Joint Disorders
- What is being tested?
- Ultrasound-guided musculoskeletal percutaneous electrolysis
- Type of treatment
- Pill or oral medicine
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 6 participants
- Where
- 1 siteSwitzerland
- Study dates
- 29 May 2026to 17 Aug 2026
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- None posted in the registry
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 18 to 21 years
- Men only
- No healthy volunteers
- Adult
Who may be able to join
- Male ice hockey players (under-21 team)
- Age between 18 and 21 years
- Presence of groin pain or anterior hip pain
- Positive FADIR test
- Ability to participate in regular training activities
- Willingness to participate and provide informed consent
Who cannot join
- 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 locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country.
About this study
Official title: Efficacy of Percutaneous Electrolysis Treatment for Hip Pain in Male Ice Hockey Players: a Pilot Study
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.
Read more
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.
Read the detailed description
Groin pain represents one of the most frequent and challenging musculoskeletal conditions in athletes, particularly in sports characterized by high mechanical demands on the hip joint, such as ice hockey. The skating motion involves repetitive cycles of hip flexion, abduction, and rotation performed at high intensity, exposing the hip joint and surrounding soft tissues to substantial mechanical stress. These repetitive loads are considered a key contributing factor in the development of chronic symptoms, functional limitations, and performance impairment.
From a clinical and biomechanical perspective, increasing attention has been directed toward the relationship between the iliopsoas muscle and the anterior capsule of the hip joint. Due to their close anatomical proximity and continuous interaction during dynamic activities, these structures are subjected to repetitive frictional and tensile forces. This mechanical interaction may contribute to the development of adaptive changes in the periarticular tissues, potentially leading to reduced mobility, altered neuromuscular control, and persistent pain in the anterior hip or groin region.
The complexity of groin pain in athletes has been highlighted in international consensus statements, which describe it as a multifactorial condition involving different anatomical structures and clinical entities. Within this framework, hip-related groin pain and iliopsoas-related pain are recognized as relevant components, reinforcing the importance of investigating periarticular hip structures, including the anterior capsule.
Percutaneous needle electrolysis (PNE), also referred to as musculoskeletal percutaneous electrolysis (EPM), is a minimally invasive intervention performed under ultrasound guidance. The technique involves the application of a controlled galvanic current through a fine needle inserted into the target tissue. This intervention is thought to induce a localized electrochemical response that promotes tissue remodeling, modulates the inflammatory process, and facilitates the regeneration of altered or dysfunctional soft tissues.
The clinical use of PNE has been widely described in the treatment of chronic musculoskeletal conditions characterized by degenerative or fibrotic tissue changes, such as tendinopathies. Experimental evidence also suggests that this technique may have beneficial effects in fibrotic environments by promoting structural reorganization and improving tissue function. However, despite these promising findings, there is currently no available literature specifically investigating the effects of PNE applied to the anterior capsule of the hip joint.
In this context, the present study is designed as a pilot experimental trial aimed at exploring the potential clinical effects of PNE when applied to the anterior hip capsule in male ice hockey players presenting with groin pain. The exploratory nature of this study is intended to generate preliminary data and to assess the feasibility and potential clinical relevance of this intervention in a population exposed to high biomechanical demands.
The working hypothesis is that targeted application of PNE at the level of the anterior hip capsule may contribute to improvements in hip function by reducing pain, enhancing joint mobility, and improving muscle performance.
To evaluate these effects, a set of objective, clinical, and patient-reported outcomes will be collected at baseline, immediately after the intervention period, and at a short-term follow-up. Objective measures will focus on hip flexor muscle strength and passive hip flexion range of motion, while clinical assessment will include the FADIR test as a provocation test for hip-related symptoms. Subjective outcomes will be assessed using the Hip and Groin Outcome Score (HAGOS), a validated questionnaire covering symptoms, pain, daily activities, sports participation, and quality of life.
The results of this pilot study are expected to provide initial insights into the potential role of PNE in the management of hip-related groin pain and to support the development of future controlled and randomized studies with larger sample sizes.
- Conditions
- Groin Pain, Hip Joint Disorders
- Being tested
- Ultrasound-guided musculoskeletal percutaneous electrolysis
- Keywords
- Ice hockey players, hip joint, groin pain, anterior hip capsule, ileo psoas muscle, Hip flexor strength, Hip range of motion, Musculoskeletal percutaneous electrolysis, Ultrasound-guided intervention, Hip function, Sports-related injury
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Ultrasound-guided musculoskeletal percutaneous electrolysisOther
The 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.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Percutaneous electrolysis intervention | Experimental | Participants will receive three sessions of ultrasound-guided musculoskeletal percutaneous electrolysis applied to the anterior capsule of the hip. Receives: Other: Ultrasound-guided musculoskeletal percutaneous electrolysis |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
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.
Measured: Baseline (pre-intervention), 2-3 days post-intervention, and 4-week follow-up
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).
Measured: Baseline (pre-intervention), immediately post-intervention (after 3 sessions), and 4-week follow-up
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.
Measured: Baseline (pre-intervention), immediately post-intervention, and 4-week follow-up
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).
Measured: Baseline (pre-intervention), immediately post-intervention, and 4-week follow-up
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted14 Apr 2026
- Study start29 May 2026
- Primary completion20 Jul 2026
- Study completion17 Aug 2026
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Other trials for Groin PainStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase N/A
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Not applicable
- Intervention model
- Single group
- Model description
- This study is designed as a single-arm, prospective pilot experimental trial aimed at evaluating the clinical effects of an ultrasound-guided musculoskeletal percutaneous electrolysis (PNE) intervention applied to the anterior capsule of the hip in male ice hockey players with groin pain. All participants will undergo a standardized intervention consisting of three treatment sessions. Outcome measures will be collected at baseline (pre-intervention), immediately after the treatment period (post-intervention), and at a 4-week follow-up. The study focuses on within-subject comparisons to assess changes over time in objective, clinical, and patient-reported outcomes.
- Masking
- None (open label)
- Enrolment
- 6 participants (actual)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Veronique Vidal
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Sponsor-investigator, Veronique Vidal, CEU San Pablo University
- Investigators
- Veronique Vidal, Physiotherapist, Principal investigator
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07527091
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- 1057-25
- Status last verified
- Sep 2026
- First submitted
- 8 Apr 2026
- Last updated
- 9 Sep 2026
- Results posted
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- No
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 9 Sep 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Efficacy of Percutaneous Electrolysis Treatment for Hip Pain in Male Ice Hockey Players: a Pilot Study
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07527091
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- 1057-25
- Conditions
- Groin Pain, Hip Joint Disorders
- Keywords
- Ice hockey players, hip joint, groin pain, anterior hip capsule, ileo psoas muscle, Hip flexor strength, Hip range of motion, Musculoskeletal percutaneous electrolysis
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Completed
- Enrolment
- 6 participants (actual)
- Lead sponsor
- Veronique VidalUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 29 May 2026 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 20 Jul 2026 (actual)
- Study completion
- 17 Aug 2026 (actual)
- First posted
- 14 Apr 2026 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
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.
Detailed description
Groin pain represents one of the most frequent and challenging musculoskeletal conditions in athletes, particularly in sports characterized by high mechanical demands on the hip joint, such as ice hockey. The skating motion involves repetitive cycles of hip flexion, abduction, and rotation performed at high intensity, exposing the hip joint and surrounding soft tissues to substantial mechanical stress. These repetitive loads are considered a key contributing factor in the development of chronic symptoms, functional limitations, and performance impairment.
From a clinical and biomechanical perspective, increasing attention has been directed toward the relationship between the iliopsoas muscle and the anterior capsule of the hip joint. Due to their close anatomical proximity and continuous interaction during dynamic activities, these structures are subjected to repetitive frictional and tensile forces. This mechanical interaction may contribute to the development of adaptive changes in the periarticular tissues, potentially leading to reduced mobility, altered neuromuscular control, and persistent pain in the anterior hip or groin region.
The complexity of groin pain in athletes has been highlighted in international consensus statements, which describe it as a multifactorial condition involving different anatomical structures and clinical entities. Within this framework, hip-related groin pain and iliopsoas-related pain are recognized as relevant components, reinforcing the importance of investigating periarticular hip structures, including the anterior capsule.
Percutaneous needle electrolysis (PNE), also referred to as musculoskeletal percutaneous electrolysis (EPM), is a minimally invasive intervention performed under ultrasound guidance. The technique involves the application of a controlled galvanic current through a fine needle inserted into the target tissue. This intervention is thought to induce a localized electrochemical response that promotes tissue remodeling, modulates the inflammatory process, and facilitates the regeneration of altered or dysfunctional soft tissues.
The clinical use of PNE has been widely described in the treatment of chronic musculoskeletal conditions characterized by degenerative or fibrotic tissue changes, such as tendinopathies. Experimental evidence also suggests that this technique may have beneficial effects in fibrotic environments by promoting structural reorganization and improving tissue function. However, despite these promising findings, there is currently no available literature specifically investigating the effects of PNE applied to the anterior capsule of the hip joint.
In this context, the present study is designed as a pilot experimental trial aimed at exploring the potential clinical effects of PNE when applied to the anterior hip capsule in male ice hockey players presenting with groin pain. The exploratory nature of this study is intended to generate preliminary data and to assess the feasibility and potential clinical relevance of this intervention in a population exposed to high biomechanical demands.
The working hypothesis is that targeted application of PNE at the level of the anterior hip capsule may contribute to improvements in hip function by reducing pain, enhancing joint mobility, and improving muscle performance.
To evaluate these effects, a set of objective, clinical, and patient-reported outcomes will be collected at baseline, immediately after the intervention period, and at a short-term follow-up. Objective measures will focus on hip flexor muscle strength and passive hip flexion range of motion, while clinical assessment will include the FADIR test as a provocation test for hip-related symptoms. Subjective outcomes will be assessed using the Hip and Groin Outcome Score (HAGOS), a validated questionnaire covering symptoms, pain, daily activities, sports participation, and quality of life.
The results of this pilot study are expected to provide initial insights into the potential role of PNE in the management of hip-related groin pain and to support the development of future controlled and randomized studies with larger sample sizes.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Not applicable
- Intervention model
- Single group
- Masking
- None (open label)
- Number of arms
- 1
- Model description
- This study is designed as a single-arm, prospective pilot experimental trial aimed at evaluating the clinical effects of an ultrasound-guided musculoskeletal percutaneous electrolysis (PNE) intervention applied to the anterior capsule of the hip in male ice hockey players with groin pain. All participants will undergo a standardized intervention consisting of three treatment sessions. Outcome measures will be collected at baseline (pre-intervention), immediately after the treatment period (post-intervention), and at a 4-week follow-up. The study focuses on within-subject comparisons to assess changes over time in objective, clinical, and patient-reported outcomes.
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Percutaneous electrolysis intervention | Experimental | Other: Ultrasound-guided musculoskeletal percutaneous electrolysisParticipants will receive three sessions of ultrasound-guided musculoskeletal percutaneous electrolysis applied to the anterior capsule of the hip. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 18 to 21 years
- Sex
- Male only
- Healthy volunteers
- Not accepted
- Age groups
- Adult
Key inclusion criteria (6 listed)
- Male ice hockey players (under-21 team)
- Age between 18 and 21 years
- Presence of groin pain or anterior hip pain
- Positive FADIR test
- Ability to participate in regular training activities
Key exclusion criteria (4 listed)
- 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
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Ultrasound-guided musculoskeletal percutaneous electrolysisThe 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. | Other | Percutaneous electrolysis intervention |
Primary outcome
Hip and groin symptoms measured with HAGOS questionnaire
Time frame: Baseline (pre-intervention), 2-3 days post-intervention, and 4-week follow-up
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.
Hip flexor strength measured with K-Force dynamometer
Time frame: Baseline (pre-intervention), immediately post-intervention (after 3 sessions), and 4-week follow-up
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).
Hip flexion range of motion measured with K-Move device
Time frame: Baseline (pre-intervention), immediately post-intervention, and 4-week follow-up
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.
FADIR test outcome (positive/negative)
Time frame: Baseline (pre-intervention), immediately post-intervention, and 4-week follow-up
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).
Results and safety
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 9 Sep 2026.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: No
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part. This study is not recruiting at the moment.
Veronique Vidal, Physiotherapist principal investigator
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing Ultrasound-guided musculoskeletal percutaneous electrolysis in people with Groin Pain and Hip Joint Disorders, run by Veronique Vidal at 1 site in Switzerland.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 6 inclusion and 4 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: finished, as of the sponsor's last update on 9 Sep 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Switzerland. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Hip and groin symptoms measured with HAGOS questionnaire (time frame: Baseline (pre-intervention), 2-3 days post-intervention, and 4-week follow-up). The study lists 4 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 9 Sep 2026; AzTrials last refreshed its copy on 8 Nov 2026.