Traumatic Shoulder Injuries in Rugby Union

Abstract

The aim of this thesis was to examine the mechanisms and risk factors of traumatic shoulder injuries in rugby union and to identify evidence-based prehabilitation strategies that can reduce the risk of these injuries. Since shoulder injuries are among the most common traumatic injuries in rugby, leading to missed play, reduced performance, and long-term consequences, the objective of this work was to review the existing literature and provide recommendations for players, coaches, and physiotherapists. This thesis was conducted as a literature review. Articles were searched in databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, SportDiscus, and BASE, and only peer-reviewed studies published between 2000 and 2024 were included. The selected studies were compared and analysed to highlight both similarities and differences across elite, youth, and regional rugby. In addition, insights gained during practical training were integrated to connect theoretical findings with real rugby situations. The results indicate that poor shoulder stability, limited mobility, and insufficient strength training are recurring factors contributing to shoulder injuries. Evidence suggests that a structured prehabilitation programme, combining mobility work, strength development, and education, can lower injury risk and support performance. Based on these findings, the thesis recommends integrating position-specific prehabilitation as a consistent part of rugby training to improve long-term player health and safety. This thesis contributes to the discussion on safer rugby practice by promoting preventive strategies through evidence-based recommendations. Further research and practical application are encouraged to design, implement, and evaluate shoulder prehabilitation programmes in different rugby contexts.