Core Stability and Shoulder Injury in Overhead Athletes: A Mini Review

Core stability indicates the strengthening and the solidity of the trunk muscles. Stability of the core muscles should be very important to perform limb movements. Improvement of core stability should be useful in overhead sports to prevent shoulder injury. We have performed a literature review to understand the status of art about core stability exercises and sports. We have considered the following terms: “shoulder AND sport AND core stability”, avoiding the MeSH terms and the use of specific filters. After the evaluation of the found papers, thirteen manuscripts were selected about the topic. Core stability influences the performances in many overhead sports: javelin throwing, volleyball, swimming, handball, soccer. The core and the shoulder functions are linked and have mutual effects. The training programs should include exercises of shoulder mobility, neuromuscular control, scapula and core function. Appropriate programs may ameliorate motor performance and prevent shoulder injury in the overhead sports. The relationship between core stability and sports is object of a few studies, at the moment. Furthermore, small amount of quantification instruments of core stability in sports exists. Further researches should be performed to show more clear evidences and recommendations about the choice of the correct training for each sport.