Sex Differences in Magnitude and Direction of Interlimb Asymmetries in Eccentric Hip Abduction Strength

Objectives: This study had three aims 1) explore the relationship between eccentric hip abduction (HABd) and magnitudes of asymmetry in males and females, 2) determine the effect of sex on magnitude of asymmetry and 3) investigate the association of sex on direction of asymmetry. Participants: 61 athletes (39 males, 22 females) participating in multidirectional sports. Main outcome measures: Eccentric HABd strength was tested in both legs for all participants using an eccentric break test with a Handheld dynamometer (HHD). Results: A statistically significant weak positive relationship was found between HABd strength and magnitude of asymmetry in males only. Females demonstrated statistically significant higher magnitude of asymmetry values (15.3%) compared to males (9.8%) (p=0.1). There was no association between sex and direction of asymmetry (absolute: χ2(1) = .24, p = .62, adjusted: χ2(1) = 1.15, p = .28). Conclusion: Female athletes are likely to have greater eccentric HABd asymmetry, but it is not know how this influences performance or injury risk.