The Effectiveness of the Copenhagen Adduction Exercise on Soccer Players With Groin Pain or Injury

The CAE is a progressive eccentric training program that enhances hip adduction. The fact that exercises are done with a partner and do not require special equipment makes them more useful in a team setting. The MPCA program, adapted from the original CAE, included six progressive levels for eight weeks, beginning with an assisted isometric adduction hold (level 1) and progressing incrementally to a complete CAE as the original exercise (level 6). The progression in levels will depend on a pain score ≤ 4/10 numeric rating scale (NRS) in the adductor squeeze test and post-session DOMS score ≤ 4/10 NRS.

The usual rehabilitation program will include leg swings extension/flexion, leg swings abduction/adduction, standing hip circles, isometric standing hip adduction using elastic bands, stretching exercises, balance training on a wobble board, and single leg coordination exercises. Difficulty and volume are progressing incrementally.