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Proprioception and throwing accuracy in the dominant shoulder after cryotherapy
Craig A Wassinger1, Joseph B Myers, Joseph M Gatti
1University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA.
Journal of Athletic Training
|June 29, 2007
Summary
Cryotherapy applied to the shoulder impairs proprioception and throwing accuracy in athletes. This study highlights potential deficits following ice pack application, impacting return-to-play decisions.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Biomechanics
- Rehabilitation Science
Background:
- Cryotherapy is frequently used for shoulder injuries and rehabilitation.
- Athletes may return to play after cryotherapy treatment.
- Effects on throwing performance post-cryotherapy are not well-understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of cryotherapy on shoulder proprioception.
- To assess the effects of cryotherapy on throwing accuracy.
Main Methods:
- A single-group, pretest-posttest design was employed.
- Healthy college-aged subjects (n=22) received a 20-minute ice pack to the dominant shoulder.
- Measures included joint position replication, motion replication, and the Functional Throwing Performance Index.
Main Results:
- Significant increases in deviation for path of joint motion replication were observed post-cryotherapy.
- The Functional Throwing Performance Index decreased after cryotherapy application.
- No significant changes were noted in active joint position replication.
Conclusions:
- Cryotherapy application to the shoulder negatively impacts proprioception and throwing accuracy.
- Clinicians should be aware of these deficits when managing athletes post-injury or during rehabilitation.
- Consideration of these findings is crucial for safe return-to-play protocols.
