A Systematic Review of the Biomechanical Studies on Shoulder Kinematics in Overhead Sporting Motions: Types of Analysis and Approaches

Abstract

The shoulder is a unique and complex joint in the human body with three bones and four joints, which makes it the most unstable joint in the body due to the amount of motion. To improve approaches toward understanding the performance of overhead throwing movements, this systematic review summarizes the type of analysis related to shoulder biomechanics involving overhead sporting motions. A search of seven databases identified 33 eligible studies, which were subsequently scored using the Modified Coleman Methodology Score scale. A total of nine articles from badminton, seven from baseball, five from volleyball, five from tennis, three from cricket, and one from softball were reviewed. All 33 studies evaluated shoulder kinematics and 12 of them also investigated the forces and torques (kinetics). The most common methods used were 3D motion analysis (76%), digital video cameras (15%), electromagnetic tracking system (6%), and finally 3% used IMU sensors. Overall, shoulder external rotation during the back swing, internal rotation, and elbow extension during the forward acceleration phase were the strongest predictors of high velocity overhead throwing movement. The findings provide some useful insights and guidance to researchers in their future contribution to the existing body of literature on shoulder overhead throwing movement biomechanics.

Shoulder Movement-Centered Measurement and Estimation Scheme for Underarm-Throwing Motions

“…Second, we select the shoulder as the body part to observe for estimation from the standpoint of information acquisition. Many studies have focused on the kinematics of throwing motions [28,29], and the shoulder plays an important role in acquiring information about them [30,31]. In practice, a number of studies have attempted to use shoulder motion as an interface for prosthetic hands.…”

Effect of Lower Body, Core and Upper Body Kinematic Chain Exercise Protocol on Throwing Performance and Shoulder Muscle Strength Among University Shot Put Athletes – A Randomized Controlled Trial

“…Their research led to the creation of more efficient training regimens by illuminating the neurological and muscular components influencing athlete performance [9]. In order to identify research gaps and trends, Ramasamy et al (2023) summarized biomechanical studies on shoulder kinematics in overhead sports. Their review acts as a guide for upcoming studies on shoulder dynamics [10].…”

“…Alberta et al's (2023) research concentrated on the validity of assessments assessing athletes' ability to throw overhead. They emphasized how crucial accurate assessment instruments are to tracking the development of athletes and prevent injuries [11]. The predictive usefulness of kinematic variables on shot put outcomes and novice athlete selection were investigated by Almadhkhori et al (2021).…”