Comparison of scapular and spine kinematics in individuals with strong and weak core muscles in push-up task

Document Type : Original Article

Researcher

Sports Injury and Corrective Exercise Group, Faculty of Physical Education, Allameh Tabataba'i University, Tehran, Iran

Ministerial Ethics Committee
This study aims to compare scapular and spinal kinematics between individuals with strong and weak core muscles during a push-up task. Core stability plays an important role in spinal control, force transfer, and coordination of upper-limb movements. Core weakness may lead to compensatory movement patterns in the scapula and spine and potentially increase the risk of musculoskeletal injuries. Despite previous research, findings regarding the relationship between core stability and shoulder and spinal movement patterns remain inconsistent.



This study is a semi-experimental, cross-sectional, laboratory-based study. Forty healthy students from Allameh Tabataba’i University will be selected based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria and classified into strong and weak core stability groups using the Sahrmann five-level core stability test. Resting scapular position will be assessed using the Lennie test. Scapular and spinal kinematics during the push-up task will then be recorded using a three-dimensional Vicon motion analysis system and Kistler force plates. Kinematic variables will include scapular and spinal angles in the three anatomical planes, while the kinetic variable will be vertical ground reaction force.



Data will be analyzed using appropriate statistical tests at a significance level of 0.05. The findings may help identify abnormal movement patterns and contribute to the development of injury prevention and rehabilitation programs for the shoulder and spine.