Effects of Cervical Manipulation on Cervical Rotation Range of Motion and Shoulder Rotational Range of Motion and Strength in Overhead Athletes

Athletes participating in sports such as baseball, softball, tennis, swimming, and volleyball, are uniquely predisposed to cervical and shoulder dysfunction due to repetitive, high-intensity movements that require coordination between the cervical spine, shoulder, and upper extremities. These repetitive motions involve extreme glenohumeral (GH) range of motion (ROM) as well as high angular velocities, often leading to adaptations such as Glenohumeral Internal Rotation Deficit (GIRD). Overhead athletes with GIRD are at a higher risk of developing shoulder injuries.

This study aims to assess the effects of cervical spinal manipulation on cervical rotation ROM, GH rotational ROM and strength in overhead athletes. The current body of literature suggests an association between cervical rotation ROM deficits and arm injury risk in professional and collegiate-level baseball players. Restrictions in the cervical spine may alter neural and muscular pathways, potentially contributing to decreased shoulder ROM, compromised strength, and impaired performance. Given the complex interplay of cervical spine and shoulder function, understanding how cervical manipulation impacts the kinetic chain can play a vital role in developing shoulder rehabilitation and preventative programs for overhead athletes.