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Shoulder InjuriesDNSGyroSHOANCT07572682

Effects of Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS) and Gyrotonic Training on Shoulder Function in Overhead Athletes

A study testing Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS), Gyrotonic Training and Usual Training in people with Shoulder Injuries, run by Sport University of Tirana at 1 site in Albania.

Completed

Finished. The study has ended and is not enrolling. Results may be posted on the official record.

Official record
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Trial summary

The goal of this randomized control trial is to evaluate the effect of the Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS) and Gyrotonic training compared to a control group on pain level, functional performance, and shoulder stability in overhead athletes aged 18 to 25 years. Read more about this study

Who is it for?
Ages 18 to 25 years
Conditions the study is for
Shoulder Injuries
What is being tested?
Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS), Gyrotonic Training and Usual Training
Could I receive a placebo?
No, everyone receives an active treatment
How many people
90 participants
Where
1 siteAlbania
Study dates
17 Feb 2025to 20 Jun 2025
Phase
Interventional
Are there results?
None posted in the registry

Key requirements

Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.

  • Ages 18 to 25 years
  • All sexes
  • No healthy volunteers
  • Adult

Who may be able to join

  • Male and female participants
  • Had a minimum of two years of sports experience
  • Presence of shoulder region injury or pain
  • Active participation in sports

Who cannot join

  • Shoulder surgery
  • Neurological disorders that can affect the upper limb
  • Shoulder dislocation
  • Orthopedic condition such as upper or lower limb fractures
  • Athletes with less than two years of sports experience

Trial locations and contacts

1 site in 1 country.

Albania1 site
  • Sport University of Tirana

    Tirana, Tirana, 1001

Other trials in Albania

About this study

Official title: Evaluation of Effects of Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization Treatments and Other Innovative Methods on Shoulder Problems in Athletes

The goal of this randomized control trial is to evaluate the effect of the Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS) and Gyrotonic training compared to a control group on pain level, functional performance, and shoulder stability in overhead athletes aged 18 to 25 years. The main question is whether these interventions are more effective than usual training in improving clinical and performance related outcomes.

Participants will take part in a supervised rehabilitation program based on these methods three times per week for six weeks.

Read more

Assessments were performed at baseline and after 6 weeks of intervention. Outcome measures included pain level, functional performance, and dynamic shoulder stability. Also, core endurance, shoulder mobility, and shoulder muscle strength will be evaluated as a secondary outcomes.

These outcomes will be assessed using Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Kerlan-Jobe Orthopedic Clinic score (KJOC), the Y-Balance Upper Quarter Stability Test (UQYBT), McGill Endurance Test Battery, goniometer and digital dynamometer.

The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Sports University of Tirana. All participants involved in this study provided written informed consent.

Read the detailed description

One of the most challenging aspects of orthopedic sports medicine is the rehabilitation of the overhead athletes. Overhead athletes place a lot of load on the shoulder joint, because of the volume of throws, mechanical stress and repetitive movements above shoulder level. During the game these athletes require high levels of mobility and stability at the same time, and neuromuscular control. Rapid motion, poor biomechanics, and weak links in the kinetic chain put this area in high risk of injury in glenohumeral joint and surrounding soft tissues. As a result, those athletes are exposed of developing shoulder pain, functional impairments, overuse injuries, and deficits in strength and mobility.

Recent rehabilitation programs for shoulder injuries in overhead athletes incorporate exercise-based interventions that integrate core activation, coordinated movement, and sport-specific function.

The purpose of this randomized controlled trial was to investigate the effect of structured neuromuscular rehabilitation program based on the Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS) method and Gyrotonic training on shoulder pain, functional performance, and dynamic stability in overhead athletes with shoulder injuries. The study looked for to determine whether these interventions could lead to significant improvements in the variables at baseline and after the interventions.

Participants meeting the inclusion criteria were recruited and were randomly allocated into one of three study groups. The intervention consisted of a supervised rehabilitation program focused on key components of shoulder function, such as neuromuscular control, strength, mobility, and coordination. The DNS program was focused on exercise based on developmental kinesiology, aimed to improve core stability, breathing patterns, and shoulder stabilization in various functional positions. The Gyrotonic program incorporated three-dimensional, spiral movement patterns aimed to improve mobility, coordination, and integrated upper limb function. The athletes involved in the DNS and Gyrotonic group continued also with their usual sports training. Exercise sessions were performed regularly in both intervention groups for a period of six-weeks. Participants in the control group continued with the usual training regime and did not receive any specific rehabilitation intervention.

Outcome assessments were conducted at baseline and after six weeks of intervention. Pain intensity, functional performance, dynamic stability were the main outcomes that were evaluated before and after the intervention period.

In addition, core endurance, mobility and muscle strength of glenohumeral joint was evaluated as a secondary outcome before and after the rehabilitation program. This study design allows the comparison of changes over time within and between groups in order to identify the most effective approach for improving pain, functional performance and stability in overhead athletes with shoulder injuries.

The findings of this study aim to provide clinically relevant evidence for the rehabilitation of overhead athletes with shoulder injuries.

Being tested
Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS), Gyrotonic Training, Usual Training
Keywords
DNS (Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization), Gyrotonic training, Shoulder injury, Overhead athletes, Shoulder Stability, Neuromuscular Training, Functional Performance
Medical subject headings
Shoulder Injuries

What participants receive

What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.

  • Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS)Other

    Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS) The exercise program based on the DNS method was focused on core activation, diaphragmatic breathing, and shoulder stabilization in various positions based on development kinesiology. Sessions were supervised by certificated therapist and were performed three times per week over a period of 6 weeks.

  • Gyrotonic TrainingOther

    A structured rehabilitation program based on the Gyrotonic method were conducted in the second intervention group. Sessions were supervised by certificated therapist and were conducted three times per week for 6 weeks. The program based on this method was focused on shoulder mobility and stability.

  • Usual TrainingOther

    Participants continued their usual sports training without any additional protocol exercise. The inclusion of the control group allows for the assessment of the additional effect of the interventions beyond usual training.

Study groups in NCT07572682
Study groupRoleWhat they receive
DNS GroupExperimentalParticipants involved in DNS group underwent a structured exercise-based intervention aimed to improve mobility, strength, and neuromuscular control. Also, the participants in this group followed the usual training program.
Receives: Other: Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS)
Gyrotonic Training GroupExperimentalParticipants in the Gyrotonic group followed an exercise program based on three-dimensional, flowing movement aimed to improve mobility, strength, and neuromuscular control. Also, the participants continued the usual training program.
Receives: Other: Gyrotonic Training
Control GroupActive comparatorParticipants included in control group continued their usual sports training routines without additional intervention during the study period.
Receives: Other: Usual Training

What is being measured

The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.

  1. Change from baseline in Shoulder Functional Performance (Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic Shoulder and Elbow Score)

    Shoulder functional performance was assessed using the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopedic Clinic Shoulder and Elbow Score Questionnaire (KJOC), a validated 0-100 scale, where higher scores indicate better function. Changes from baseline to post-intervention will be evaluated.

    Measured: Baseline (pre-intervention) and after 6 weeks of intervention

  2. Change from baseline in Shoulder Pain (Visual Analog Scale)

    Shoulder pain was assessed by Visual Analog Scale (VAS), a 0-10 scale, where higher scores indicate greater pain intensity. Changes from baseline to post-intervention will be evaluated.

    Measured: Baseline (pre-intervention) and 6 weeks after of intervention.

Secondary outcomes (9)
  1. Changes from baseline in Upper Limb Dynamic Stability (Upper Quarter Y Balance Test)

    Upper limb dynamic stability was assessed by Upper Quarter Y Balance Test (UQYBT), which evaluates reach distance in multiple directions to assess functional shoulder stability. Results were recorded in centimeters and normalized as a percentage of limb length. Higher scores indicates better dynamic stability.

    Measured: Baseline (pre-intervention) and after 6 weeks of intervention.

  2. Change from baseline in Trunk Flexor Endurance

    Trunk flexor endurance was assessed using the McGill Endurance Battery Test and was recorded in seconds (s). Higher values indicate greater endurance

    Measured: Baseline (pre-intervention) and after 6 weeks of intervention.

  3. Change from baseline in Trunk Extensor Endurance

    Trunk extensor endurance was assessed by McGill Endurance Battery Test, a validated clinical assessment of trunk muscle endurance. Performance is recorded in seconds. Higher values indicate greater muscular endurance.

    Measured: Baseline (pre-intervention) and after 6 weeks of intervention.

  4. Change from baseline in Shoulder Abduction Range of Motion

    Glenohumeral abduction range of motion (ROM) was assessed in both upper limbs, the dominant and non-dominant using a universal goniometer in degrees (◦). Goniometer is a validated instrument for joint angle measurement. Higher values indicate greater joint mobility. Changes from baseline to post intervention will be analyzed.

    Measured: Baseline (pre-intervention) and after 6 weeks of intervention.

  5. Change from baseline in Shoulder Internal Rotation Range of Motion

    Glenohumeral internal rotation range of motion (ROM) was assessed in both upper limbs, the dominant and non-dominant using a universal goniometer in degrees (◦). Goniometer is a validated instrument for joint angle measurement. Higher values indicate greater joint mobility. Changes from baseline to post intervention will be analyzed.

    Measured: Baseline (pre-intervention) and after 6 weeks of intervention.

  6. Change from baseline in Shoulder External Rotation Range of Motion

    Glenohumeral external rotation range of motion (ROM) was assessed in both upper limbs, the dominant and non-dominant using a universal goniometer in degrees (◦). Goniometer is a validated instrument for joint angle measurement. Higher values indicate greater joint mobility. Changes from baseline to post intervention will be analyzed.

    Measured: Baseline (pre-intervention) and after 6 weeks of intervention.

  7. Change from baseline in Shoulder Internal Rotation Muscle Strength

    Shoulder internal rotation muscle strength was assessed using a digital dynamometer, a valid and reliable instrument for isometric muscle strength, and expressed in Newton (N). Higher values indicate greater muscle strength.

    Measured: Baseline (pre-intervention) and after 6 weeks of intervention.

  8. Change from baseline in Shoulder External Rotation Muscle Strength

    Shoulder external rotation muscle strength was assessed using a digital dynamometer, a valid and reliable instrument for isometric muscle strength, and expressed in Newton (N). Higher values indicate greater muscle strength.

    Measured: Baseline (pre-intervention) and after 6 weeks of intervention.

  9. Change from baseline in Shoulder Abduction Muscle Strength

    Shoulder abduction muscle strength was assessed using a digital dynamometer, a valid and reliable instrument for isometric muscle strength, and expressed in Newton (N). Higher values indicate greater muscle strength.

    Measured: Baseline (pre-intervention) and after 6 weeks of intervention.

Timeline

From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.

  1. First posted7 May 2026
  2. Study start17 Feb 2025
  3. Primary completion17 Mar 2025
  4. Study completion20 Jun 2025

Resources

More details

For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.

Study design
Study type
Interventional
Phase
Phase N/A
Primary purpose
Treatment
Allocation
Randomised
Intervention model
Parallel groups
Model description
Participants will be allocated into three parallel groups: DNS intervention group, Gyrotonic intervention group, and control group continued their regular sports training program and did not receive any additional intervention during the study period.
Masking
Single blind
Who is masked
Outcomes assessor
Enrolment
90 participants (actual)
IDs, dates and publications
ClinicalTrials.gov ID
NCT07572682
Sponsor's protocol ID
DNS-Gyro-Study-2025
Acronym
DNSGyroSHOA
Status last verified
Apr 2026
First submitted
23 Apr 2026
Last updated
7 May 2026
Results posted
No
Data monitoring committee
No
FDA-regulated drug
No
FDA-regulated device
No
Individual data sharing
No: The individual participant data (IPD) will not be shared in order to protect participant confidentiality and privacy. In accordance with institutional regulations and informed consent obtained from participants, only overall results will be reported in publications.

Questions about this trial

What is this clinical trial studying?

A study testing Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS), Gyrotonic Training and Usual Training in people with Shoulder Injuries, run by Sport University of Tirana at 1 site in Albania.

The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.

Who may be eligible to take part?

The sponsor lists 4 inclusion and 5 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.

Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?

The record says: finished, as of the sponsor's last update on 7 May 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.

Where is the study taking place?

The record lists 1 site in Albania. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.

What are the possible benefits and risks?

They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.

Are results available for this study?

The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.

How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?

The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.

What does the primary outcome measure?

Change from baseline in Shoulder Functional Performance (Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic Shoulder and Elbow Score) (time frame: Baseline (pre-intervention) and after 6 weeks of intervention). The study lists 2 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.

Where can I read the original study information?
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?

No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.

How often is this information updated?

AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 7 May 2026.

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