Comparison of shoulder resultant net moment between three different exercises and load conditions

Different exercises are prescribed by physiotherapists and despite the popular use of elastic resistance, few studies have investigated the effect of such rehabilitation tools on shoulder resultant net moment (RNM). The aim of the present study was to compare shoulder RNM peak values and the respective angle of occurrence during three shoulder rehabilitation exercises: 1) elevation in the scapular plane; 2) flexion; and 3) abduction when performed in three different load situations: 1) without external load; 2) with dumbbells (DB); and 3) with elastic resistance. Twenty-one healthy subjects participated in the study. Kinematic data were obtained by means of an inverse dynamic model. A two-way ANOVA was used for data analysis (α < 0.05). The highest RNM peak for abductor and external rotator muscles was during shoulder abduction exercise and for flexor muscles was during flexion and elevation in the scapular plane. The DB load condition was associated with highest RNM peak values for all muscle groups. This study presents differences among three exercises and load situations for RNM peak values and angle of occurrence. Furthermore, it also presents theoretical rationale for load progress and selection of exercises for shoulder rehabilitation management. Clinicians should consider it, when prescribing strengthening exercises for shoulder rehabilitation.