Comparative effects of closed kinetic chain exercises versus scapular stabilization exercises on pain, ROM and functional disability in badminton players with scapular dyskinesis

Badminton involves rapid overhead strokes that place high mechanical stress on the shoulder, making scapular dysfunction a common overuse problem rather than an acute injury. Scapular dyskinesis, characterized by altered scapular motion and poor muscular coordination, contributes to pain, instability, and reduced performance in overhead athletes. Rehabilitation typically includes either scapular stabilization exercises, which strengthen key stabilizers such as the serratus anterior and trapezius to correct faulty kinematics, or closed kinetic chain (CKC) exercises, which enhance joint stability, proprioception, and neuromuscular control through weight-bearing tasks. The present study compares these two approaches in badminton players with positive scapular dyskinesis to determine their effect on pain, scapular control, and functional performance. Participants are divided into two groups which are  Group A Scapular Stabilization group and Group B  CKC group, and outcomes are assessed using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale, Scapular Dyskinesis Test, Active ROM, SPADI, Kjoc and the CKC Upper Extremity Stability Test to establish the  rehabilitation efficacy.