Association between Rotator Cuff Weakness and Shoulder Impingement Syndrome in Bowlers

Rotator Cuff Weakness and Shoulder Impingement Syndrome in Bowlers

Abstract

The rotator cuff comprises four muscles and their associated tendons, which function together to support the ball (head) of the upper arm bone (humerus) in the shoulder joint and allow for fluid movement and rotation of the shoulder. Because of the repeated overhead motion involved with bowling, many bowlers develop a common shoulder injury, shoulder impingement syndrome (SIS), due to overuse and/or "overloading" these structures in their shoulders. SIS occurs when the rotator cuff tendons or the bursa sac that surrounds them become compressed/irritated, resulting in pain, inflammation, and restricted shoulder function. Objective: To find out the association between rotator cuff weaknesses and shoulder impingement syndrome. Methods: Data were collected from fast bowlers at the University of Lahore, Lahore Gymkhana, Minhaj College Sports Club, and various cricket clubs and academies across Lahore. A total of 77 bowlers aged 20–35 years were selected through convenience sampling. Players with recent shoulder injuries, rotator cuff tears, or neurological conditions were excluded. Results: All the participants were male. Shoulder impingement was assessed using the Neer test, with 28 bowlers testing positive, all of whom exhibited severe Rotator cuff weakness and shoulder impingement syndrome among bowlers. Conclusions: A high prevalence of SIS was observed among fast bowlers due to the physical nature of the action. SIS can be minimized by improving the strength of the shoulder, using correct technique, and resting. Additional research should be undertaken to develop specific preventative and rehabilitation programs for fast bowlers.