FMS Score and Shoulder Girdle Stability in Cross-Fit Athletes with and Without Scapular Asymmetry

Background: Various intrinsic and extrinsic risk factors can increase the risk of injury. In individuals, altered scapular position may lead to a limited range of motion, changes in muscle length and proprioception, and reduced performance. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate functional movement screen (FMS) scores and shoulder girdle stability in CrossFit athletes with and without scapular asymmetry. Methods: Sixty male CrossFit athletes were divided into two groups: Those with scapular asymmetry (n = 23) and those without (n = 37). In the first session, the participants' height, weight, and scapular symmetry were measured. Necessary explanations and instructions regarding the FMS and Y-balance tests were provided, and the athletes performed the tests once as a trial. The Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare FMS scores and right/left Y-balance performance between the two groups. Results: The Mann-Whitney U test revealed no significant differences in FMS scores between the two groups. Similarly, there were no significant differences in right or left Y-balance performance among CrossFit athletes with and without scapular asymmetry. Conclusions: The findings suggest that CrossFit athletes frequently train with body weight and external loads through full ranges of motion at varying joint angles, engaging all muscle groups in multiple directions. Given this diversity of movement, scapular asymmetry may not significantly affect FMS scores or shoulder joint stability in athletes with this condition.