Evaluation and Association of Core Muscle Endurance, Shoulder Range of Motion and Strength in Subjects With Shoulder Pain

Objective The study aimed to assess the endurance of core muscles, shoulder range of motion (ROM), strength, and disability in subjects with and without shoulder pain. A secondary aim was to determine a possible connection between core muscle endurance and shoulder pain, along with related variables. Methods This cross-sectional study evaluated 50 subjects with shoulder pain (54.60 ± 12.17 years) and 50 without shoulder pain (53.86 ± 12.08 years). Core muscle endurance was assessed using the flexor endurance test and the prone bridge. Shoulder ROM, strength, scapula strength, and SPADI were evaluated. Results The mean duration of shoulder pain was 13.77 months. Subjects with shoulder pain had significantly reduced core muscle endurance (P < .001), shoulder strength (P < .001), scapula elevator and depressor muscle strength (P < .05), and passive ROM (P < .05). Correlation was found between core muscle endurance and shoulder muscle strength (r=0.50; P < .05). Conclusion Reduced core muscle endurance was strongly linked to shoulder muscle strength in individuals experiencing shoulder pain. This underscores the necessity of addressing core stability along with shoulder and scapula strength assessment.