Shoulder range of motion and strength in beach tennis athletes compared to volleyball and tennis players: implications for injury risk and performance

Ramos, Ana Paula; Secchi, Leonardo Luiz Barretti; Migliorini, Filippo; Maffulli, Nicola; Okubo, Rodrigo

doi:10.1186/s13018-025-05600-x

Shoulder range of motion and strength in beach tennis athletes compared to volleyball and tennis players: implications for injury risk and performance

Ramos, Ana Paula; Secchi, Leonardo Luiz Barretti; Migliorini, Filippo; Maffulli, Nicola; Okubo, Rodrigo

Authors

Ana Paula Ramos

Leonardo Luiz Barretti Secchi

Filippo Migliorini

Nicola Maffulli

Rodrigo Okubo

Abstract

Introduction: Beach tennis (BT) combines elements of tennis, volleyball, and badminton, attracting a diverse global following. Despite its popularity, research on its link to shoulder injuries remains limited. This study investigates shoulder characteristics among BT athletes, volleyball players, and tennis athletes to identify potential differences and inform injury prevention strategies. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was performed to assess shoulder range of motion (ROM) and rotator cuff strength in 65 athletes using an online questionnaire and biomechanical assessments. Results: Volleyball players demonstrated superior shoulder ROM compared to tennis and BT athletes, while tennis players exhibited a greater difference in internal rotation between sides. Additionally, volleyball athletes displayed greater external rotation strength on the dominant side than tennis players, with BT athletes also exhibiting significant strength advantages. Conclusion: These findings emphasise the distinct demands of BT and highlight the need for tailored interventions to optimise performance and minimise injury risks. Customised training and injury prevention approaches are warranted.

Citation

Ramos, A. P., Secchi, L. L. B., Migliorini, F., Maffulli, N., & Okubo, R. (2025). Shoulder range of motion and strength in beach tennis athletes compared to volleyball and tennis players: implications for injury risk and performance. Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research, 20(1), 1-6. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13018-025-05600-x

Journal Article Type	Article
Acceptance Date	Feb 10, 2025
Online Publication Date	Apr 23, 2025
Publication Date	Apr 23, 2025
Deposit Date	Apr 30, 2025
Publicly Available Date	Apr 30, 2025
Journal	Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research
Electronic ISSN	1749-799X
Publisher	Springer Verlag
Peer Reviewed	Peer Reviewed
Volume	20
Issue	1
Article Number	411
Pages	1-6
DOI	https://doi.org/10.1186/s13018-025-05600-x
Public URL	https://keele-repository.worktribe.com/output/1201188

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