The relationship of periscapular strength on scapular upward rotation in professional baseball pitchers.
BACKGROUND
Deficiencies in scapular upward rotation and periscapular strength have been associated with various shoulder pathologies and decreased athletic performance. Therefore, proper periscapular strength and concomitant scapular upward rotation are important factors among overhead athletes, such as baseball players.


OBJECTIVE
To assess the relationships between lower trapezius and serratus anterior strength and the quantity of scapular upward rotation.


METHODS
Descriptive study.


METHODS
Laboratory.


METHODS
24 professional baseball pitchers.


METHODS
Scapular upward rotation was measured at 0 degrees , 60 degrees , 90 degrees , and 120 degrees of humeral elevation. The maximum isometric strength of the lower trapezius and serratus anterior were measured.


RESULTS
There was a moderate-good positive relationship between lower trapezius strength and scapular upward rotation at 90 degrees (r2 = .56, P = .001) and 120 degrees (r2 = .53, P = .001). The relationships between scapular upward rotation and serratus anterior strength were all poor.


CONCLUSIONS
A moderate-good relationship existed between lower trapezius strength and scapular upward rotation.
Kinesiology and Recreation Department at Illinois State University, Normal, IL, USA. klaudne@ilstu.edu
Kevin G
KG
Laudner
Justin M
JM
Stanek
Keith
K
Meister
D000328:Adult; D001484:Baseball; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D053580:Muscle Strength / Q000502:physiology*; D012399:Rotation; D012540:Scapula / Q000502:physiology*; D012785:Shoulder Joint / Q000502:physiology