Effects of an 11-Week Detraining, Imposed by the COVID-19 Confinement, on Handball Players’ Shoulder Rotator Isokinetic Profile, Shoulder Range of Motion, and Ball Release Velocity

Abstract

Background and Objectives: The COVID-19 confinement significantly impacted the physical condition of athletes. However, the detraining impacts of this period on the shoulder rotator and range of motion in handball players have not been studied. Thus, the main aim of this study was to investigate the effect of this 11-week detraining period, imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic confinement, on the shoulder rotator isokinetic profile (peak torque, ratio, fatigue index), shoulder rotator and flexion range of motion, and ball release velocity in handball players. Materials and Methods: A total of 16 handball players, with a mean age of 22.38 (5.28) years, participated in this study. The isokinetic strength was assessed using two protocols (three repetitions at an angular velocity of 60°/s and 20 repetitions at an angular velocity of 180°/s). In addition, the range of motion and ball release (at jump and standing shots) were measured. All these measurements were assessed before and after the COVID-19 confinement. Results: The results showed a significant reduction in the peak torque of the external rotation of their dominant and non-dominant shoulders. In addition, confinement significantly increased the fatigue index of external rotation and internal rotation and reduced the range of motion of internal rotation. Additionally, the ball release velocity during standing and jump shots was significantly reduced. Conclusions: These results suggested that strengthening external and internal rotation as well as recovering the internal rotation range of motion may be necessary after a detraining period in order to prevent shoulder injuries.