Throwing Velocity and Patient Reported Outcomes in Elite Level Handball Players After Completion of Shoulder-Pacemaker Strength Training

Throwing Velocity and Patient Reported Outcomes in Elite Level Handball Players After Completion of Shoulder-Pacemaker Strength Training

The successful application of treatment protocols using motion-triggered neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) for treatment-resistant functional posterior shoulder instability was recently demonstrated. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the concept of a motion-triggered NMES training protocol through objective clinical outcome parameters and its impact on external rotational (ER) shoulder strength and throwing velocity in healthy, elite-level handball players.

The aim of this study is to evaluate the concept of a motion-triggered NMES training protocol through objective clinical outcome parameters and its impact on external rotational (ER) shoulder strength and throwing velocity in healthy, elite-level handball players. It is hypothesized that a 6-week motion-triggered NMES shoulder strengthening training protocol in elite-level handball players would lead to an increase in throwing velocity due to an improved motor ability and ER shoulder strength.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Elite level handball players healthy and actively competing at the time of the study
• Patients must be at least 18 years at the time of signing the informed consent
• Pregnancy must be ruled out in the case of female participants (e.g., pregnancy test)
• Patient must be available for all specified assessments throughout the study duration
• All patients are required to give written informed consent before enrollment

Exclusion Criteria:

• age <18,
• history of type I or II shoulder instability according to the Stanmore classification12,
• existing pain syndrome (defined by pain at rest or during motion that is not caused by dislocation and impedes training),
• recent shoulder surgery (<1 year).
• Contraindication to SPM treatment (e.g., cardiac pacemaker)
• Neurological disorders or nerve injuries causing the instability
• Uncontrolled alcohol or substance abuse