Shoulder function and scapular position in boxers

• We compared shoulder and scapular function in a boxing and control group.
• We used similar testing protocols to that used with overhead throwing athletes.
• Our findings indicate that boxers display issues seen in overhead throwing athletes.
• We recommend that those working with boxers should monitor them for potential issues.

ObjectivesTo investigate differences in strength, shoulder range of motion and scapula position in a cohort of boxers in comparison with a control group of non-boxers.DesignCross-sectional study.Participants18 boxers with 3 or more years of experience (years = 5.5 ± 3.1, sessions per week = 4.3 ± 0.7, age = 27.0 ± 6.8) and 20 control participants (age = 28.3 ± 4.6).Experimental protocolThe participants were tested for isometric internal and external rotation strength measured with a hand held dynamometer, passive internal and external rotation measured via 2D video using a digital camera, and scapular function measured with a scoliometer and visual inspection by a trained researcher. Both arms (dominant and non-dominant) were tested to allow for comparison. Magnitude based inferences were used to find meaningful differences intra and inter group.ResultsBoxers had greater scapular dyskinesis (hazard ratio (HR) = 2.73 ×/÷ 3.37) and increased external rotation in the dominant arm (effect size (ES) = 0.70 ± 0.68) when compared to the non-boxer group.ConclusionBoxers with 3 or more years of experience displayed symptoms that increase their risk of upper limb injury when compared to a control group.