Understanding shoulder injuries in elite handball players

The Throwing Shoulder: The Cause of Shoulder Injuries or Pain in Experienced Handball Players: Nordic Throwing Shoulder Project (NTS - Project)

Observational Nord University · NCT04056078

This study looks at shoulder injuries in top handball players from Denmark, Sweden, and Norway to see how common they are and what might cause them, so we can find better ways to prevent these injuries and help players perform better.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 40 Years
SexAll
SponsorNord University Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Hvidovre, København and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04056078 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to investigate the prevalence and risk factors associated with shoulder injuries among elite handball players in Denmark, Sweden, and Norway. It focuses on assessing the range of motion, strength, and scapular control in athletes, both with and without a history of shoulder pain. By analyzing these factors, the study seeks to provide insights into how training techniques can be optimized to prevent injuries and enhance performance. The research is part of a broader initiative to improve athlete health and safety in overhead sports.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are elite handball players from the top three leagues in Denmark, Sweden, and Norway, regardless of their shoulder pain history.

Not a fit: Patients who have undergone shoulder surgery or have shoulder pain resulting from a traumatic event may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved training protocols that reduce the incidence of shoulder injuries in handball players.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have identified risk factors for shoulder injuries in overhead athletes, suggesting that this approach has been validated in similar contexts.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Elite handball players in the top three leagues in Denmark, Sweden and Norway
* Players playing without shoulder pain.
* Players playing with previous shoulder.
* Players playing with shoulder pain.
* Participating in both defends- and attack- relating situations.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Operation in the shoulder
* Not participating in attack related situations.
* Shoulder pain caused by a traumatic event

Where this trial is running

Hvidovre, København and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Shoulder InjuriesShoulder PainInjury PreventionKinematicsKineticsMuscle WeaknessThrowing PerformanceOverhead Injuries
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.