Aim of this study was to assess the glenohumeral joint internal and external rotational
range of motion using an ultrasound based kinematic measurement device. Twenty-seven
male professional tennis players were bilaterally measured for internal and external
rotation at 90 degrees of shoulder abduction while avoiding scapulothoracic motion.
The control group consisted of 20 asymptomatic volunteers not involved in overhead
sports activities. The dominant arm (playing arm) had a significantly greater
range of external rotation than the non-dominant arm, while their internal rotation
showed a significant deficit as compared to the non-dominant arm. The dominant
arm total rotational range of motion was also significantly reduced in comparison
to the non-dominant arm and to the controls. No significant difference was found
between the dominant and non-dominant extremity in the control group. For objective
measurement of glenohumeral rotational range of motion ultrasound based real time
motion analysis is a new application for the diagnostic testing of specific shoulder
parameters in orthopedics and sports physical therapy. It is therefore concluded
that the specific methodology aiming at isolated glenohumeral motion may have
clinical application for the development of rehabilitation and preventative programs.
Shoulder - glenohumeral rotation - range of motion - tennis
