Comparison of Joint Position Sense and Force-Reproduction in Female Racquet Athletes with and Without Scapular Dyskinesia

Abstract

Background: Scapular dyskinesia (SD) is a common condition that affects racquet athletes, impacting their performance and predisposing them to injuries. Objectives: This study aimed to compare joint position sense (JPS) and force reproduction in racquet athletes with and without SD. Methods: This study was conducted as a cross-sectional study. The statistical population consisted of female student-athletes aged 18 to 30 who were engaged in badminton, tennis, and ping pong in Quchan city, both with and without shoulder dyskinesia. The sample included thirty athletes with shoulder dyskinesia and thirty without it, who were randomly selected. Joint Position Sense was assessed at 45 and 135 degrees of abduction. The tools employed in this research encompassed a consent form, an inclinometer (goniometer), the Kibler test, force-reproduction testing, and the McClure test. Data analysis was performed using the Shapiro-Wilk test and an independent t-test in SPSS version 23, with a significance level set at P < 0.05. Results: The results revealed a statistically significant difference in JPS of the shoulder joint between athletes with and without SD at angles of 45 and 135 degrees (P < 0.05). Similarly, the independent t-test analysis demonstrated a significant difference in force reproduction of the shoulder joint between athletes with and without dyskinesis (P < 0.05). Conclusions: These findings underscore the importance of addressing SD and its associated sensory impairments in racquet athletes to optimize performance and reduce the risk of injuries.