Efficacy of Posterior Capsule Stretching and Eccentric Loading on Functional Kinematics and Serve Velocity in Adolescent Volleyball Athletes with GIRD: A Randomized Controlled Trial
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Abstract
Abstract:
Background—Glenohumeral Internal Rotation Deficit (GIRD) is a significant limitation to athletic performance.
To this end, the current study investigates a novel rehabilitation protocol comprising posterior capsule stretching in association with eccentric strengthening.
Methods: Twenty-four adolescent athletes were randomly assigned to an experimental (EG) or a control group (CG; n = 12 per group) in a single-blind experimental design. In the experiment group, there was an 8-week targeted stretching protocol together with eccentric training for the external rotator muscles.
Results: Statistical analyses indicated that the experimental group significantly outperformed control on each post-test measure (p< 0.001; 95% CI), with large effect sizes Cohen's d > 0.8).
The experimental group experienced significant changes in internal rotation range of motion, functional strength and spike serve speed.
Conclusion: Combining eccentric loading with targeted stretching appears effective for restoring shoulder kinematic symmetry and performance parameters in young athletes.
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