BIOMECHANICAL ASSESSMENT OF SCAPULAR PLANE ELEVATION EXERCISE WITH DIFFERENT MODES OF RESISTANCE IN SUBJECTS WITH AND WITHOUT IMPINGEMENT SYNDROME.

Abstract

Background: Strengthening the rotator cuff and scapular stabilizers is usually prescribed for subjects with shoulder pain and is done either using dumbbells or TheraBand. The resistance offered by elastic Theraband increases with increase in change from initial length and therefore the resistance offered by TheraBand, and dumbbell differs across the range of motion.

Objectives: The purpose of the study is to evaluate the scapular kinematics and activity of prime mover (Anterior Deltoid) while using two different modes of resistance (TheraBand v/s dumbbell) in subjects with and without impingement syndrome.

Methods: Twenty-two asymptomatic subjects and 12 subjects with impingement syndrome were included. 3D motion sensors were attached over the humerus, scapulae and trunk to capture movements of the shoulders as the subject performed scapular elevation without load, with yellow Theraband or 2 Kg Dumbbell. Simultaneous electromyography (EMG) activity of anterior Deltoid was measured and analyzed as percentage of maximum voluntary contraction.

Results: During arm elevation, scapular Upward rotation was significantly greater at 90° with TheraBand^® as compared to unloaded. It was also greater at 120° as compared to unloaded and dumbbell conditions (p<0.001) during elevation and lowering phase. Scapula upward rotation was significantly lesser at 30° with TheraBand^® as compared to other conditions.

Conclusion: This study found significant downward rotation and anterior tilt of scapula with TheraBand during lowering phase of exercise as compared to dumbbell and unloaded. The alterations of kinematics may help therapists make informed decisions while making exercise prescriptions.