Frequency of Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy Among Gym Beginners

Abstract

Background: Rotator cuff–related shoulder symptoms are common in physically active populations, yet limited evidence exists regarding their frequency among gym beginners and their impact on quality of life. Objective: To determine the frequency of clinical findings suggestive of rotator cuff tendinopathy among gym beginners and to evaluate their association with shoulder-related quality of life. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 100 gym beginners aged 20–40 years in Bahawalpur. Participants were assessed using the Hawkins-Kennedy test to identify shoulder impingement–related symptoms and completed the Western Ontario Rotator Cuff Index questionnaire to evaluate quality of life. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used for analysis. Results: A total of 56% of participants tested positive on the Hawkins-Kennedy test (95% CI: 46–66%). All participants with negative findings reported best quality of life, whereas 98.2% of positive cases had mildly affected quality of life and 1.8% had severe impairment (p < 0.001). Female participants showed a higher prevalence of positive findings compared to males (80% vs 40%; OR = 6.0, 95% CI: 2.5–14.4). Conclusion: A high proportion of gym beginners demonstrated clinical signs suggestive of rotator cuff–related shoulder involvement, which was strongly associated with reduced quality of life. These findings highlight the importance of early screening and preventive strategies in novice gym populations.