Analysis of scapulothoracic rhythm in amateur volleyball players
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55892/jrg.v9i20.3258Keywords:
Scapulothoracic rhythm, Shoulder, Volleyball, Biomechanics, PhysiotherapyAbstract
Introduction: Scapulothoracic rhythm is fundamental to shoulder biomechanics, especially in sports that require repetitive overhead movements, such as volleyball, and may undergo alterations that impair scapular function and contribute to the development of pain and injuries. Objective: This study aimed to analyze scapular function in amateur volleyball players using the Scapular Assistance Test (SAT), identifying alterations in scapulothoracic rhythm and possible asymmetries between the upper limbs. Materials and Methods: This was an observational, cross-sectional, descriptive study with a quantitative approach, conducted with 23 male amateur volleyball players. Sociodemographic and sports-related information was collected through a structured questionnaire, in addition to the bilateral application of the SAT for functional scapular assessment. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including absolute and relative frequencies, mean, and standard deviation. Results: The results demonstrated a mean age of 28.3 ± 9.5 years, predominance of right-handed individuals, longer sports practice time, and a weekly training frequency of two to three sessions. It was observed that 43.5% of participants presented compensatory patterns. In the dominant limb, 39.1% showed significant improvement in the SAT, while in the non-dominant limb there was a similar distribution between partial and significant improvement. Conclusion: It was concluded that amateur volleyball players present functional scapular alterations, especially in the dominant limb, highlighting the importance of functional assessment for the early identification of biomechanical dysfunctions and the development of preventive strategies.
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