Relaciones entre la extensibilidad, el rango de movimiento y la intensidad del dolor en jugadores de balonmano semiprofesionales

Abstract

ObjectiveTo compare range of motion and extensibility between the throwing shoulder and non-throwing shoulder in handball athletes. To investigate the relationship between the time practicing handball with the extensibility, the range of motion (ROM) and shoulder pain intensity during throwing actions. MethodsA cross-sectional study was carried out. Forty-three semi-professional handball athletes were included. The time practicing handball, the extensibility of the tissues of the posterior part of the shoulder, the internal rotation and external rotation ROM and pain intensity during throwing actions were assessed. ResultsThe throwing shoulder presented a decreased in internal rotation ROM and extensibility of the tissues of the posterior part of the shoulder (P<.05), and a greater external rotation ROM (P=.044). Moderate negative associations were found between the time practicing handball and internal rotation ROM (P=.011) and the extensibility of the tissues of the posterior part of the shoulder (P=.033). A positive moderate association was found between internal rotation ROM and extensibility of the tissues of the posterior part of the shoulder (P=.002). No associations were found with pain intensity (P>.05). ConclusionsThe throwing shoulder presents a lesser internal rotation ROM, a greater external rotation ROM and a lack of extensibility. The internal rotation ROM deficit has been associated with the extensibility, and both variables have been associated with the time of practicing handball.