The association between gird and overhead throwing biomechanics in cricket

The development of GIRD is a well-documented adaptation associated with repetitive overhead throwing in numerous sports. In occurrence with total rotational range of motion deficit, GIRD is considered pathological and increases shoulder injury risk. While cricketers demonstrate these deficits in rotational range; the association between GIRD and overhead throwing has yet to be explored. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the relationship between GIRD and overhead throwing biomechanics in cricketers. Passive shoulder rotational range of motion was measured in 15 cricketers (elite = 8, amateur = 7). Kinetic and kinematic data were obtained during overhead throws from a stationary and run-up approach. Linear regression was used to determine potential relationships between GIRD and discrete shoulder kinetics for both throwing approaches. One-dimensional statistical parametric mapping regression was conducted to assess relationships between GIRD and throwing kinematics. When throwing overhead from a stationary position, GIRD was associated with reduced hip abduction during the preparatory arc (p = 0.002); superior shoulder (p = 0.003) and elbow compressive (p = 0.009) forces, at cocking. In addition, GIRD was associated with increased posterior shoulder force during arm deceleration for both stationary (p = 0.013) and run-up approaches (p = 0.03) to overhead throwing. Cricketers with GIRD utilise a shorter stride, creating early pelvic rotation and a slow throwing arm with an associated reduction in forces about the shoulder and elbow at cocking, when throwing from a stationary position. Further, overload of the posterior shoulder occurs during arm deceleration, irrespective of throwing approach. These findings highlight potential shoulder injury risk.