Is Scapular Dyskinesis effective on Shoulder Strength Profiles in Asymptomatic Young Swimmers?

Abstract

Background and Purpose: The aim of this study was (a) to investigate whether presence of scapular dyskinesis (SD) differs by gender in asymptomatic young swimmers and (b) to compare shoulder muscle strength between asymptomatic young swimmers with and without SD. Methods: Fifty-six asymptomatic young swimmers (mean age:10.35y; 22 females; 34 males) were included in the study. The presence of SD was determined visually using SD test with dichotomous outcome (yes/no). The shoulder muscle strength was assessed via handheld dynamometer. Results: There was statistically significant difference between swimmers with and without SD in shoulder flexion muscle strength in both females and males (respectively, p<0.018, p<0.015). There was statistically significant difference between swimmers with and without SD in shoulder internal and external rotation muscle strength in males (respectively, p<0.048, p<0.041). No significant prevalence was found between the presence of SD and gender (p=0.167). Conclusion: The results of this study demonstrated that although SD prevalence was similar by gender, differences in shoulder muscle strength were present between asymptomatic young swimmers with and without SD. Thus, early identification of SD may be beneficial for asymptomatic young swimmers to avoid its possible transformation into symptomatic situation.

Keywords

• muscular performance
• gender
• swimmers
• scapular dysfunction

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