Welcome to Dr. Beaudry’s Lab

Dr. Sara Beaudry, Ph.D., ATC, leads research at Noorda College of Osteopathic Medicine (Noorda-COM) focused on the intersection of osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM) and athletic performance. Her work investigates how manual therapies and movement-based interventions can enhance function, reduce injury risk, and support athletes who perform high-demand movements, particularly overhead athletes.

                           Dr. Sara Beaudry

OMM vs. Dynamic Warm-Up for High School Athletes in Overhead Sports

Principal Investigator: Dr. Sara Beaudry, Ph.D., ATC
Noorda Faculty Collaborators: Dr. Cosgrave, Dr. Kriak

This study examines whether a single session of osteopathic manipulative medicine (OMM) measurably improves shoulder range of motion (ROM) in high school athletes compared to a traditional dynamic warm-up or no intervention.

Research Focus & Hypothesis

Hypothesis

OMM will significantly improve shoulder internal or external rotation ROM compared to a dynamic warm-up routine or a control (rest) condition in high school athletes with limited shoulder mobility.

Target Population

High school athletes who participate in sports that require repetitive overhead shoulder motion, such as baseball, softball, volleyball, swimming, and tennis.

Exclusion Criteria

  • Current shoulder injury requiring medical or surgical intervention

  • History of shoulder dislocation or shoulder surgery

  • Neuromuscular disorders or connective tissue diseases

Study Design & Methods

Screening & Consent

Participants and their legal guardians complete a screening questionnaire and an informed consent process prior to participation.

Baseline & Post-Treatment Assessment

Each athlete undergoes standardized pre- and post-intervention measurements, including:

  • Goniometric assessment of shoulder range of motion

  • Isometric strength testing

  • Video analysis of shoulder movement patterns

Randomization Protocol

Participants are randomly assigned to one of three groups:

OMT Group
Receives a single OMM session focused on the glenohumeral joint and associated structures.

Dynamic Warm-Up Group
Completes a traditional athletic warm-up emphasizing active range of motion.

Control Group
Rests quietly in a supine position, serving as a sham/control condition.

Significance

This research explores how OMM may benefit young athletes who rely heavily on shoulder mobility and stability. By comparing OMM with standard warm-up routines, the study aims to clarify whether manual therapy provides a distinct advantage in improving ROM—one of the most critical factors in preventing overuse injuries in overhead sports. The findings may inform athletic training practices, injury-prevention strategies, and future integration of OMM into sports medicine protocols.