Shoulder Pain, Core Endurance, and Scapular Control in Adolescent Volleyball Players

Shoulder pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal problems in adolescent volleyball players because of repetitive overhead activities such as serving and spiking. Although impaired scapular control and reduced core endurance have been suggested as potential contributors to shoulder pain, their combined relationship has not been sufficiently investigated in young volleyball athletes. This observational cross-sectional study aims to examine the relationship between shoulder pain, core endurance, and scapular control in licensed adolescent volleyball players aged 14 to 18 years. Participants with and without shoulder pain will undergo standardized assessments, including the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain intensity, the Scapular Dyskinesis Test for scapular control, and the McGill Core Endurance Test Battery for trunk muscle endurance. The findings are expected to improve the understanding of factors associated with shoulder pain and contribute to the development of injury prevention and rehabilitation strategies for adolescent volleyball players.

Inclusion Criteria: * Female licensed volleyball players aged 14 to 18 years. * Participation in regular volleyball training at least three times per week. * Dominant upper extremity identified. * Ability to understand the study procedures and provide informed assent. * Written informed consent provided by a parent or legal guardian for participants younger than 18 years. Exclusion Criteria: * Shoulder surgery within the previous 6 months. * Acute upper extremity or spinal injury. * History of fracture affecting the upper extremity or spine. * Neurological disorders affecting upper extremity function. * Systemic rheumatologic disease.