A survey of glenohumeral joint rotational range and non-specific shoulder pain in elite cricketers

Karen Giles and Iris Musa

The objective of this study was to determine if a glenohumeral joint internal rotation range of motion difference (IRD) and external rotation difference (ERD) exists between dominant and non-dominant shoulders of cricketers as demonstrated in other overhead sports, and, if present, to establish if differences exist between cricketers with and without a history of gradual onset non-specific shoulder pain.  One hundred and nine elite male and female cricketers (11–35 years), representing 97% of the England and Wales national and West of England regional Under 13 teams participated.  Cricketers who regularly bowl or throw overarm had significantly less internal and greater external dominant to non-dominant glenohumeral rotation. Wicket-keepers had tendencies for smaller differences that were still statistically significant. Cricketers who experienced shoulder pain demonstrated a significantly greater IRD than those who did not.

The results of this study support measurement of passive glenohumeral joint rotation during musculoskeletal profiling and indicate a possible link between increased IRD and non-specific shoulder pain.

Physical Therapy in Sport, 9 May 2008, online article ahead of press

Link to Abstract