Frequency of Scapular Dyskinesis and its Association with Shoulder Pain in Gym-Going Females in Hayatabad: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Abstract
Background: Scapular dyskinesis is a common issue among individuals who engage in regular gym activities. As the scapula provides a stable base for movement, alterations in its positioning or motion can impair shoulder function. To address performance limitations, it is essential to identify the frequency of scapular dyskinesis, particularly in at-risk populations such as female gym-goers.
Objectives: The primary objectives of this study were to determine the frequency of scapular dyskinesis in gym-going females and to examine its association with shoulder pain.
Methods: For this cross-sectional study, 114 participants were surveyed through convenience sampling at Rehman Medical Complex gym, Hayatabad Sports Complex, and Iqra University gym in Peshawar. Participants were selected based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Eligible participants were females aged 18–40 years who voluntarily participated and had been performing upper-body workouts for at least one month. Those with a history of shoulder pathology, diabetes mellitus, pregnancy, recent upper-limb fractures within past two months, or neurological disorders were excluded. The data were collected over a three-month period from May 2022 to July 2022, followed by an additional three months for data analysis and manuscript preparation, which were completed by October 2022. Participants received two diagnostic tests to identify scapular dyskinesis. By using SPSS version 26, frequencies were calculated for categorical variables, and the chi-square test was applied to examine the association between scapular dyskinesis and shoulder pain.
Results: The study revealed an overall frequency of scapular dyskinesis of 70.3%. A statistically significant association exists between scapular dyskinesis and shoulder pain (p = 0.006).
Conclusion: Scapular dyskinesis was found to be highly frequent among gym-going females and demonstrated a significant association with shoulder pain. These findings underscore the importance of appropriate training techniques and targeted scapular muscle conditioning to prevent dysfunction and optimise upper-limb performance in female gym populations. Clinically, the results support the incorporation of structured scapular muscle strengthening exercises into routine gym-based training programmes as a preventive strategy to reduce the risk and severity of shoulder pain among gym-going individuals.
Keywords: Gym-goer, lateral scapular slide test, scapular dyskinesis, shoulder pain.
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