A survey of glenohumeral joint rotational range and non-specific shoulder pain in elite cricketers

To determine if a glenohumeral joint internal rotation range of motion difference (IRD) and external rotation difference (ERD) exists between dominant and non-dominant shoulders of cricketers as demonstrated in other overhead sports, and, if present, to establish if differences exist between cricketers with and without a history of gradual onset non-specific shoulder pain.

An observational study.

Non-clinical, at national cricket indoor training venues.

One hundred and nine elite male and female cricketers (11-35 years), representing 97% of the England and Wales national and West of England regional Under 13 teams, consented. The final number included for data analysis was 133.

Data relating to playing position, cricket exposure, shoulder pain and demographic details collected using a questionnaire. Passive isolated glenohumeral rotation measured in 90 degrees shoulder abduction using an inclinometer.

Cricketers who regularly bowl or throw overarm had significantly less internal (-7.9 degrees , p<0.001) and greater external (8.6 degrees , p<0.001) dominant to non-dominant glenohumeral rotation. Wicket-keepers had tendencies for smaller differences that were still statistically significant [mean IRD -5.9 degrees (p<0.001); ERD 5.0 degrees (p=0.002)]. Cricketers who experienced shoulder pain demonstrated a significantly greater IRD [mean 3.2 degrees (p=0.032)] than those who did not.

The results of this study support measurement of passive glenohumeral joint rotation during musculoskeletal profiling and indicate that a possible link between increased IRD and non-specific shoulder pain warrants further investigation.