At a glance
ClinicalIndex Comparison RecordStandardized by ClinicalIndex from the ClinicalTrials.gov record · verify against the source.
Serratus Anterior Activation and Its Relationship With Shoulder Rotators in Adolescent Volleyball Players With Scapular Dyskinesia During Plank Exercise
In Brief
An observational study evaluating scapular dyskinesis test for Scapular Dyskinesis. Completed, enrolled 29 participants across 1 site.
Detailed Summary
Scapular dyskinesia is a condition characterized by changes in the resting position or movement of the scapula, which can impair shoulder function. Issues such as increased glenohumeral angle, reduced rotator cuff strength, and decreased subacromial space are commonly observed in athletes and sedentary individuals. Scapular muscle imbalances, particularly in the serratus anterior and lower trapezius muscles, are key contributors to dyskinesia. Studies show decreased EMG activity in these muscles among sedentary individuals, while increased activity is noted in overhead athletes. The relationship between serratus anterior activity and shoulder external rotation strength varies, highlighting the importance of strengthening scapular muscles to prevent injury in athletes. The core, including the spine, hips, pelvis, and abdomen, provides stability and transfers forces throughout the body. Core and scapular stability are interrelated, and impairment in scapular stability can weaken core strength, increasing the risk of injury. Therefore, exercises targeting both the core and scapular muscles are vital in athletic training programs. The plank exercise, which minimizes spinal load and promotes strength, is preferred for enhancing both core and scapular endurance. However, improper form, especially due to weak stabilizer muscles, can lead to compensations that increase injury risk, such as long thoracic nerve injury. Although studies exist on serratus anterior activity during plank exercises, there is limited research on its activation in athletes with scapular dyskinesia.
Study Details
Timeline
Interventions
Scapular dyskinesia in athletes will be visually evaluated. It will be considered present if, during 3 out of 5 arm elevation attempts, any of the following are observed: prominence of the medial or upper scapular border, lower scapular angle, excessive clavicular elevation, or rapid downward rotation of the scapula. After the tester demonstrates the required movements, the athletes will practice the movement. The test will begin with the arms at the sides of the body, elbows straight, and shoulders in neutral rotation. Two testers will observe from behind and video record the movements. Participants will be instructed to raise their arms as high as possible simultaneously, using the \'thumbs up\' position, and to maintain this position for 3 seconds before lowering their arms for another 3 seconds. Athletes will perform the arm elevation with a dumbbell weight calculated as 1.4% of their body weight (Kamonseki, Haik, Ribeiro, Almeida, \& Camargo, 2023).