
Physical Therapy & Rehab
Significant differences in shoulder muscle activity during exercise in water vs. on land
This report has been verified
by one or more authors of the
original publication.
J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 2014 Feb;23(2):159-65. doi: 10.1016/j.jse.2013.04.010.
16 right-handed participants were randomized to perform 3 elevation movements (flexion, abduction, and scaption) ranging from 0 to 90 degrees at 3 movement speeds (30deg/sec, 45deg/sec, and 90 deg/sec) in water and on land. The purpose of this study was to examine shoulder muscle activation and determine whether there is a difference between dry-land and in-water exercises. Results indicated that overall muscle activation was lower in water at 30 degrees/second, similar in both at 45 degrees/second, and lower on land at 90 degrees/second. Authors have recommended a rehabilitation regimen that involves exercise in an order of progressive muscle activation.
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