Does scapular dyskinesia affect upper extremity performance, proprioception, and body image in kickboxers? Case-control study.

Abstract

Background: Scapular Dyskinesia (SD) is detected more frequently in athletes who do overhead activity sports. SD is more common in kickboxers who actively use their upper extremities. This study was conducted to compare upper extremity stabilization, proprioception and body image in kickboxers with and without SD.

Methods: Kickboxing athletes participating in the study were divided into two groups according to whether they had SD or not. Presence of SD with Lateral Scapular Slide Test; Shoulder proprioception sense with digital inclinometer (Dualer IQ Pro, JTECH Medical Industries) at 40, 70, 90 and 135 degrees; Shoulder joint stabilization was evaluated with the Closed Kinetic Chain Upper Extremity Stabilization Test, and body image was evaluated with the Body Assessment Scale.

Results: A total of 56 male kickboxing athletes with (n:27) and without (n:29) SD between the ages of 18-35 were included in the study. There was no difference between the groups regarding age, height, weight, body mass index, and 40° with 135° shoulder abduction proprioception sense (p > 0.05). There were differences between the groups in terms of sports history, 70° and 90° shoulder abduction proprioception sense, shoulder stabilization and body image (p: 0.001; p: 0.003; p: 0.003; p: 0.012, respectively).

Conclusion: Shoulder proprioception, shoulder joint stabilization, and body image in kickboxers with SD were better than kickboxers without SD. In addition, Kickboxers with SD performed in this sport for a longer time than kickboxers without SD.