earticle

영어

[PURPOSE] As athletes who overuse their shoulder joints obtain numerous shoulder injuries, freestyle wrestlers have been reported to sustain the highest rates of shoulder joint injuries. To prevent shoulder injury, increasing upper extremity dynamic stability by inducing reduction of external rotation(ER) range of motion(ROM) and expansion of internal rotation(IR) ROM is considered important. Thus, this study compared shoulder rotation range and upper extremity dynamic stability before and after McConnell taping to demonstrate the effectiveness of McConnell taping application on the shoulder. [METHODS] The subjects of this study included 14 male freestyle wrestlers who have a medical history of shoulder anterior instability(n=8) and no medical history(n=6). McConnell taping was selected as a method of shoulder taping. This study measured IR and ER ROM of the shoulder using a smart phone clinometer application. Upper extremity dynamic stability was evaluated utilizing Y-balance test score. [RESULTS] This study produced the following results: First, composite score of Y-balance test changed significantly dependent on both period and interaction of the test. Second, the IR-ROM test changed significantly dependent upon both period and interaction of the test. Third, there were significant differences in the period and interaction in ER-ROM. However, no significant differences were found between the groups. [CONCLUSIONS] McConnell taping decreased ER-ROM and increased IR ROM by moving the humeral head more posteriorly. It is suggested that McConnell taping has a positive effect on proprioception and neuromuscular control, acting as an important factor to raise upper extremity dynamic stability by increasing mechanical stability through proper support for, and protection of, the humerus and scapula. In conclusion, even wrestlers with a medical history of shoulder injury are expected to prevent shoulder injury by applying McConnell taping, but further study is needed to identify whether or not McConnell taping can deliver the same results in the field.