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Context: The scapular retraction exercises are widely used among clinicians to balance the activity of the scapular muscles as well as the rotator cuff muscles in different shoulder abduction positions. Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between scapular (middle and upper trapezius) and shoulder muscles (middle deltoid and infraspinatus) activation level differences and acromiohumeral distance changes during shoulder abduction with scapular retraction. Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: University research laboratory. Participants: Nineteen asymptomatic individuals were included (mean [SD]: age = 22.4 [1.8] y). Main Outcome Measure: The acromiohumeral distance was measured at 0° and 90° shoulder abduction when the scapula was in nonretracted and retracted position with ultrasound imaging. The relationship between muscle activation level changes and acromiohumeral distance difference was analyzed with the Pearson correlation test. Results: Middle trapezius muscle activity change correlated with acromiohumeral distance difference (r =.55, P =.02) from 0° to 90° shoulder abduction when scapula was retracted. For both nonretracted and retracted scapular positions, no correlations were found between middle deltoid, infraspinatus, and upper trapezius muscle activity changes with acromiohumeral distance differences during shoulder abduction (P >.05). Conclusions: Active scapular retraction exercise, especially focusing on the middle trapezius muscle activation, seems to be an effective treatment option to optimize the acromiohumeral distance during shoulder abduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of plyometric training on vastus lateralis (VL) and patellar tendon size, quadriceps isokinetic strength, and vertical jump height in adolescent female volleyball players. Thirty players (age mean ± SD: 15.7 ± 1.1 years) participated in a 6-week Sportsmetrics™ plyometric training program. VL thickness, echo intensity, and patellar tendon cross-sectional area were assessed by real-time ultrasound. Isokinetic quadriceps strength and vertical jump were assessed. The VL thickness, quadriceps strength, and VJ height increased and VL–echo intensity decreased after training. We recommended that 6-week Sportmetrics plyometric training program may be implemented in adolescent female volleyball programs especially before the beginning of the volleyball season. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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