Opposite SI Joint Stretching for GIRD

Abstract: Background: Glenohumeral Internal Rotational Deficit (GIRD) is a well-documented finding in throwing athletes. Hypothesis/Purpose: The purpose of this study is to investigate if stretching the contralateral sacroiliac (SI) joint improves GIRD in baseball players. Additionally, the effect of the SI joint stretch will be compared to that of the classically described sleeper stretch. Study Design: Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial Methods: With the athlete supine and arm abducted 90o, internal rotation of both shoulders was measured in 23 minor league baseball players. Next, each player randomly was assigned to either a control (sleeper stretch of dominant shoulder) or experimental (stretch of the SI joint contralateral to the dominant shoulder) group supervised by a certified athletic trainer. The players performed their own stretches. Finally, the initial two investigators, unaware of to which group the player was assigned, re-measured the end-range internal rotation of each athlete's dominant shoulder.