Understanding of shoulder biomechanics: prevention of glenohumeral instability and improvement of return to sport after surgery

This main objective can be divided into three sub-objectives.

 1/ To assess the construct validity of shoulder functional tests. The kinematic, kinetic and electromyographic activity of the shoulder muscles will be recorded during three physical performance tests, i.e. Unilateral Seated Shot Put test, Upper Quarter Y Balance Test, and Closed Kinetic Upper Extremity Stability Test, to produce indicators of stability, strength, etc... Thus, these indicators may allow to determine shoulder functions really assessed by these tests.

2/ To identify risk factors for the occurrence and recurrence of shoulder injuries of the rugby union player. A prospective study will be conducted with the LOU rugby club during which the players will realize a battery of functional and analytical tests during pre-season time. During the competitive season, the total workload will be quantified and the injuries suffered by the players characterized. Statistical analysis will express the status of the shoulder (injured/uninjured) based on functional, analytical and workload assessments to identify risk factors for the occurrence and recurrence of shoulder injuries.

3) To study the effects of the open Latarjet procedure on scapular kinematics and on the activation of peri-scapular muscles. A patient group and a control group will participate in two testing sessions: before the surgery and 3 months post-surgery for the patient group and 3 months apart for the control group. During testing session, scapular kinematics and peri-scapular muscle activity will be recorded. These data will allow to assess the changes in scapular kinematics and muscle activity that may occur after the Latarjet procedure.