Relationship Of Rotator Cuff Injuries Between Fast Bowlers And Slow Bowlers In The Sport Of Cricket

Objectives:This study was guided by the following objectives:to investigate the relationship of rotator cuff injuries between fast-bowlers and slow-bowlers in the sport of cricket; to assess the subjects’extent of knowledge or the lack thereof and how perceived risks influence the level of the outcome of overuse injuries; to identify and characterize the demographic factors associated with this research; to determine the existence of any relationship between overuse injuries and years of cricket experience and to identify other associated injuries related to overuse.Research design:This is a quantitative, exploratory, descriptive study that was carried out with a random sample of junior cricketers.Setting:The study was conducted and data collected from10Western Province Division-A high schools in Sri Lanka.Results:Cricket related injuries were more prevalent among the bowlers (52%). The number of injured players increased proportionally with years of experience. Fast bowlers presented a higher rate of rotator cuff injuries (75%) as compared to slow bowlers. The injury patterns observed were all consistent with the roles of the various cricketers in this study. Conclusion:Overtime and with constant use of the musculoskeletal system, signs and symptoms of overuse injuries begin to emerge. This phenomenon was fully appreciated among the cricketers in this study. In addition, fast bowlers are at a higher risk of suffering from the complications of overuse, especially, rotator cuff injuries. Strategic plans must be implemented to combat the development of these injuries, in order to prolong the well being and career of these cricketers.