Focusing the Shoulder or Considering the Whole-Body in Volleyball Physiotherapy

Focusing the Shoulder or Considering the Whole-Body? A Randomized Controlled Trial on Physiotherapy Protocols for the Painful Shoulder in Volleyball Players

Shoulder pain can be common in overhead sports, and in particular, in volleyball. Different physiotherapy protocols can be adopted depending on the suspected pathophysiological mechanisms. Despite most of the protocols rely only on the shoulder district, some research suggests that treating the whole-body might produce better results as it could influence kinematic chains and correct muscle imbalances. The aim of this study will be to compare the effects of two physiotherapy protocols (shoulder focus or whole body) compared to only education without physiotherapy.

Inclusion Criteria:

• practicing volleyball for at least 5 years with a training volume of minimum 5 h/wk

Exclusion Criteria:

• history of previous surgical intervention or fractures on the shoulder or spine