The acute effects of two passive stretch maneuvers on pectoralis minor length and scapular kinematics among collegiate swimmers

Jeffrey G Williams, Kevin G Laudner, Todd McLoda, Jeffrey G Williams, Kevin G Laudner, Todd McLoda

Abstract

Purpose/background: To compare the acute effects of two passive stretches on pectoralis minor length and scapular kinematics among a group of collegiate swimmers.

Methods: The study was a descriptive design with repeated measures. All procedures were conducted in a biomechanics laboratory and collegiate swimming facility. Fifty asymptomatic shoulders from 29 NCAA swimmers were used (15 control shoulders, 17 focused stretch shoulders, 18 gross stretch shoulders). Pre- and post-test linear pectoralis minor length, as well as scapular kinematics (upward/downward rotation, external/internal rotation, anterior/posterior tilt) were measured as dependent variables. Pectoralis minor length was measured using a standard tape measure and three-dimensional scapular kinematics were measured using an electromagnetic capture system.

Results: The gross stretch shoulders had a significant increase in pectoralis minor length compared to the control shoulders (P=.007). There were no other significant changes in length for either the focused stretch or control shoulders (P>.07). No statistically significant (P>.08) differences for all three scapular kinematic variables were found among any of the three groups (P>.08).

Conclusions: Our results revealed no acute improvements of scapular upward rotation, external rotation, or posterior tilt after the application of either passive stretch maneuver to the pectoralis minor muscle.

Level of evidence: 2b.

Keywords: Scapular dyskinesis; muscle; overhead athlete; tightness.

Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.
Focused stretch procedure. Arrow indicates an anteriorly directed line of pull applied by the clinician, as if to lift the pectoralis minor muscle away from the thorax.
Figure 2.
Figure 2.
Gross stretch procedure. Arrow indicates an overpressure force applied by the clinician in a direction of horizontal abduction.
Figure 3.
Figure 3.
Illustration of three-dimensional scapular kinematics: upward/downward rotation (left), anterior/posterior tilt (middle), external/internal rotation (right).

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