Introduction: The researchers suggested that the change of shoulder girdle muscles function specially the scapular stabilizer muscles that observed in kyphosis deformity may affect the position of scapula bone and upper limb range of motion due to shoulder joints connections and dysfunction scapula humeral rhythm. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare the scapula position and upper limb range of motion in athletes with and without kyphosis deformity.
Methodology: The method of this study was descriptive in nature and comparative. The method of subject collection was purposive. So, 60 handball and volleyball athletes (18-24 years old) were selected as the sample and they were divided into with and without kyphosis deformity groups using Iranian thoracic kyphosis degree norm. Scapular distance from each other, using a tape measure and arm flexion range of motion was measured by a goniometer. Data were analyzed by SPSS.16 using with Independent t-tests.
Results: The results showed that scapula protraction degree in kyphosis deformity group was significantly higher than without kyphosis deformity group. Also arm flexion range of motion in kyphosis deformity group was significantly less thon those without kyphosis deformity group.
Discussion: According to the results, it can be said that scapular bones in subjects with kyphosis deformity will abduct and tilt forward and this state draws shoulder girdle down and forward. In this state change the alignment of the shoulder girdle limited shoulder flexion. Therefore, it is recommended that Kyphosis deformity correction programs, especially "in overhead athletes, the correct alignment of the spine and scapula position can overcome the limitations of arm flexion and will help overhead techniques in athletes.