Evaluation of Scapular Dynamics in Sports Trainees

Abstract

Background: The scapula provides stability and mobility for efficient upper-limb movement. Optimal scapular kinematics are essential for efficient force generation and injury prevention. Sports trainees, particularly those involved in sports requiring repetitive or high-intensity shoulder movements, are susceptible to injuries and performance limitations if associated with aberrant scapular mechanics. Understanding the intricacies of scapular dynamics is essential for designing tailored training interventions that enhance athletic performance. Rationale and objectives: Previous research has emphasized the need for sports-specific training protocols. The measurement of scapular rotation has gained significant attention. Evaluating asymmetries in scapular dynamics across various sports trainee populations is a step forward for the need for tailored interventions and injury prevention strategies in preventing injury and planning better exercise programs. The study uses a PALM meter for the measurement of scapular rotation. Methodology: 40 Subjects 19 to 24 years old from the sports authority of Andhra Pradesh, India, were studied after obtaining written informed consent. Scapular rotation measured in a neutral and with hands on the hip position. Root of the scapula (RSS), inferior angle of the scapula (IAS), and spinous processes (Sp) of C7 to T8 are taken as the anatomical landmarks. Measurements of scapular position taken in two arm positions: shoulder neutral, hands on hip. A right-angle triangle created by dropping a perpendicular line from the scapula's root to intersect the horizontal line between the scapula's inferior angle and the thoracic spine's closest spinous process (IAS-Sp). The hypotenuse represents the distance IAS to RSS, while the side opposite the angle θ is the distance IAS-Sp minus RSS-Sp. A positive result indicates upward scapular rotation, while a negative result indicates downward scapular rotation. Results and Conclusion: This cross-sectional study revealed variations in scapular rotation and the distances from spinous processes in the scapular position in neutral and hands-on Hip positions from right to left and male to female. Further studies are required to understand scapular rotation variations concerning various sports involving overhead activity, heavy weight lifting, endurance sports and anatomical variations, muscle activation patterns, or task demands. KEYWORDS: Scapular Rotation, Sports Trainees, Shoulder Movements, Scapular Mechanics, Athletic Performance.