Musculoskeletal, Functional and Performance Impairment in Female Overhead Athletes with a Previous Shoulder Injury

Abstract

Background: Shoulder injuries are substantial problems in overhead athletes, and more studies are necessary to deepen the knowledge on this type of injury. The objective of this study was to compare the overall function and performance of female overhead athletes with and without a previous history of shoulder injuries. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, female overhead athletes with and without a previous shoulder injury were included. Muscular impairment, the stability of the shoulder, strength, scapular dyskinesia, functionality and sports performance were evaluated. A total of 50 females were included. Results: There were significant differences in strength (p = 0.046) and stability (p = 0.039) between groups, with a poorer score in the group with a history of shoulder injury. Regarding scapular dyskinesia, significant differences were also observed between groups (p = 0.048), with higher levels of dyskinesia in the group with previous shoulder injury. Also, muscular impairment showed significant differences between groups for the three muscles evaluated (p < 0.005). Additionally, the group without a previous shoulder injury presented with a significantly greater score in functionality (p = 0.046) and sports performance (p = 0.004). Conclusion: In conclusion, previous shoulder injuries are an important factor to take into account in female overhead athletes. Players with a history of shoulder injury present clinical impairments during the game, leading to poorer functional status and performance in sport.