Sex-related isokinetic profile of shoulder strength of a Brazilian amateur wheelchair basketball team

Abstract

Objective This cross-sectional study aimed to delineate the isokinetic shoulder strength profile of amateur Brazilian wheelchair basketball athletes (WBA). Methods The study cohort comprised 22 WBAs (10 women, mean age 38.4 ± 6.6 years; 12 men, mean age 36.1 ± 6.3 years). Isokinetic evaluations were conducted using a Biodex System 4 isokinetic electromechanical dynamometer, focusing on concentric/concentric bilateral isokinetic exercises for both dominant and non-dominant shoulder joints, specifically targeting internal and external rotations. Descriptive statistics were employed alongside paired and unpaired Student's t-tests for data analysis. Results The findings revealed that male athletes dedicated 52.1 % more time to wheelchair basketball practice compared to their female counterparts. Most participants had spinal cord injuries, predominantly located between thoracic vertebrae T4 and T12, with functional classifications ranging from 3 to 4. Analysis of isokinetic strength differences between sexes indicated that men exhibited significantly greater shoulder strength across various speeds and metrics, including absolute maximum torque, relative maximum torque, and average power for both external and internal rotations at angular velocities of 60 and 240° per second. Notably, no significant correlation was observed between isokinetic strength variables and functional classification. Conclusions In summary, this study highlights significant sex-based disparities in isokinetic shoulder strength among WBAs, with male athletes demonstrating superior shoulder strength across multiple parameters. These findings underscore the necessity for sex-specific training and rehabilitation programs to optimize athletic performance and injury prevention in wheelchair basketball.