Effect of shoulder internal rotators strengthening versus muscle energy technique for shoulder external rotators on bowling speed among fast bowlers playing cricket: a study protocol

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: The literature has shown the promising effect on shoulder internal rotators strengthening on fast bowlers. However, no previous study has demonstrated the effect of muscle energy technique for shoulder external rotators on fast bowlers. This study aims to analyze the efficacy of shoulder internal rotators muscles strengthening and muscle energy technique for external rotators enhancing the bowling in speed among fast bowlers in cricket. METHODS/DESIGN: Participants will be screened based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Demographic data shall be collected. Participants taken shall be in the age group between 18-30 years, be randomly assigned into two groups: exercise group and MET group. Outcomes considered in the study are Universal Goniometer and Bowling speed km\h. This is a two-group, pre-test, post-test randomized clinical trial. Participants will receive 5 sessions per week within 2 months. The range of motion and speed of the ball is the primary outcome measures to the pre and post-intervention effect of the treatments. PERSPECTIVES: Results from this study can provide the basis for studying the strengthening of the shoulder internal rotator muscles and MET of shoulder external rotators in rehabilitation and clinical setups, which will provide additional help to the bowlers increase bowling speed. The procedure of the study is noninvasive, safe, and feasible. The efficacy of shoulder internal rotator strengthening and muscle energy technique for shoulder external rotators on fast bowlers in each group will be established with this study. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Clinical Trials Registry- India. (CTRI/2020/06/026046). Universal Trial Number- U1111-1257-4649.