The effect of eight weeks of shoulder-focused exercises on shoulder strength, range of motion, and performance in female volleyball players with scapular dyskinesis

Introduction: Scapular dyskinesia in female volleyball players, caused by repetitive overhead movements, impairs shoulder function and increases the risk of injury. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a shoulder-focused exercise program in addressing these issues. Objective: The study aimed to evaluate the impact of an eight-week shoulder-focused exercise program on shoulder strength, range of motion, and performance in female volleyball players with scapular dyskinesia. Methodology: Thirty professional female volleyball players with scapular dyskinesia, diagnosed using the Scapular Lateral Glide Test, were randomized into an exercise group (n = 15) and a control group (n = 15). The exercise group underwent an eight-week progressive program with three 25-minute sessions per week targeting scapular stabilization, rotator cuff strengthening, and volleyball-specific movements. The control group continued standard training. Baseline and post-intervention assessments measured scapular rhythm, rotator cuff strength, range of motion, and upper quarter performance using standardized tests. Data were analyzed with statistical tests using SPSS27. Results: The exercise group showed significant improvements in scapular rhythm, internal and external rotator strength, range of motion, and upper quarter performance compared to the control group, which did not exhibit significant changes. Discussion: These findings align with previous research demonstrating that specific exercise programs improve shoulder biomechanics in athletes with scapular dyskinesia, although some studies reported less pronounced performance gains. Conclusions: The eight-week shoulder-focused exercise program effectively improved shoulder function and performance in female volleyball players with scapular dyskinesia. This intervention is a practical approach to managing scapular dyskinesia and reducing injury risk.