Effectiveness of a sport-specific exercise programme for overhead athletes with unilateral subacromial shoulder pain: a study protocol of a randomised controlled trial.

Abstract

Subacromial shoulder pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal conditions affecting overhead athletes, particularly those engaged in high-intensity training modalities such as CrossFit. The prevalence of shoulder injuries in this population continues to rise due to increased participation, repetitive overhead movements, and biomechanical stress on the rotator cuff and scapular stabilisers. While various rehabilitation approaches exist, no consensus exists on the most effective exercise intervention for improving shoulder function and pain outcomes in athletes with subacromial shoulder pain. Current rehabilitation protocols for overhead athletes lack specificity, failing to address the sport-specific demands and movement patterns that may contribute to persistent pain and dysfunction. This study compares the effectiveness of a sport-specific exercise programme versus a scapular stability programme in improving clinical and functional outcomes in CrossFit athletes with subacromial shoulder pain. This study follows a randomised controlled trial (RCT) design, adhering to Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials and Standard Protocol Items: Recommendations for Interventional Trials guidelines for intervention-based trials. Outcome assessments will include validated patient-reported outcome measures, objective strength and mobility tests, and biomechanical performance metrics. Participants will be recruited from sports clinics and CrossFit training centres across Madrid, ensuring a representative sample of athletes experiencing shoulder pain.