Effectiveness of Muscle Energy Techniques on Glenohumeral Internal Rotation Deficit in Overhead Athletes: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Purpose: Posterior shoulder tightness (PST) and Glenohumeral Internal Rotation Deficit (GIRD) are frequent biomechanical changes in overhead athletes. Evidence has shown that PST and the presence of GIRD increase subacromial pain syndrome. Posterior shoulder stretching exercises are used to improve posterior shoulder tightness. Muscle Energy Techniques (MET) are a long-established and effective approach, and the number of studies investigating the effects of MET on GIRD has been increasing in recent years. Despite the use of static stretching techniques in training, GIRD continues to be common in athletes performing overhead activities. Therefore, revealing the effects of MET on GIRD might be effective in determining the type of stretching most appropriate for preventing GIRD in athletes. Methods: We performed a systematic literature review, assessing the relevance of studies for inclusion and selecting the studies from appropriate electronic databases (CINAHL, Cochrane Review, Pubmed (MEDLINE), Web of Science as well as Google Scholar©). Results: The present systematic literature search generated 178 relevant citations and 8 articles were included in the final review. As an outcome measure, GIRD was assessed in all eight, whereas PST was assessed in four. Conclusion: According to this systematic literature review, MET is effective in the improvement of GIRD and PST in overhead athletes. Future research should focus on symptomatic shoulders and investigate the long-term benefits of MET. © 2023 Turkish Physiotherapy Association. All rights reserved.