Eccentric training for the prevention of injuries in the neck-shoulder region

INTERVENTION: Subjects randomised to the training group will train 2 times per week for 5 weeks of intensive eccentric training for the neck‐shoulder muscles. Participants randomised to the control group will not train. The intervention will last 5 weeks. CONDITION: Musculoskeletal disorders ; Musculoskeletal Diseases ; Diseases of the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue PRIMARY OUTCOME: 1. Muscle strength, measured using a dynamometer and assessed three times: before intervention, after 2 weeks, and after the intervention period. ; 2. H reflex amplitude, elicited by electrical stimulation and measured three times: before intervention, after 2 weeks, and after the intervention period. ; 3. Muscle activity and coordination, measured by surface electromyography [EMG] and assessed three times: before intervention, after 2 weeks, and after the intervention period. SECONDARY OUTCOME: 1. Muscle soreness, measured by visual analogue scale [VAS] and assessed before each training session; 2. Compliance, measured at each training session INCLUSION CRITERIA: Healthy men and women between 18 and 40 years old