The influence of musculoskeletal pain and injury on within-subject movement variability at the upper extremity: a systematic review

Abstract

Movement variability is defined as variations in joint movements, joint coordination and muscle activation patterns that arise between repetitions of tasks. It can be affected by several factors such as pain, fatigue, and skill level. However, the association between pain and movement variability in the upper extremity is unclear. The aim of this study is to summarize articles investigating how MSK pain or injury affects within-subject movement variability during repetitive task-related movements. The databases PubMed and Web of Science were used. Four studies demonstrated significantly higher within-subject movement variability in participants experiencing upper extremity MSK pain or injury. Four other studies documented both increased and decreased within-subject variability. Furthermore, one study reported lower within-subject movement variability in patients with MSK pain and injury. Conclusion: Findings suggest that within-subject movement variability differs in people experiencing upper extremity MSK pain or injury.