Don’t Forget About the Scapula!!!

The shoulder blade is the forgotten hero of a healthy shoulder. It depends on all of the muscles which attach to it, known as scapular stabilizers, to function and fire appropriately to stabilize the scapula to allow for proper positioning of the glenoid fossa which makes up the socket of the glenohumeral joint.

The scapula is a triangular shaped bone located on the back of the upper ribcage and forms joints with the clavicle forming the AC joint and with the humerus for the glenohumeral joint. A fun fact about the scapula is there are 17 muscles that attach to it.

Scapulohumeral rhythm is the term used to describe the timing of movement between the glenohumeral (ball-and-socket) joint and scapulothoracic (scapula moving on thorax) joint during shoulder elevation. The overall ratio is 2:1 glenohumeral to scapulothoracic with 60 degrees occurring due to rotation of the scapula and 120 degrees due to the glenohumeral joint.

If there are impairments of the shoulder blade musculature or improper scapular mechanics, it will affect how the glenohumeral joint is able to move and function with any upper extremity movements. A comprehensive shoulder rehab program will always incorporate stabilization and strengthening of the upper back musculature. A few of my must-do exercises for all patients include rows, bilateral extension, and horizontal abduction. As patients are improving and getting stronger, it’s fun to mix things up with stabilization exercises the Bosu and BodyBlade and more advanced strengthening with dumbbells and cable column exercises.

If you are interested in learning more or about treatment options, don’t hesitate to call/text 701-318-4731 or email connectptnd@gmail.com to learn how we can help. Don’t forget to follow on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date on the happenings at Connect Physical Therapy.

- Alison Fuhrman, PT, DPT, CMPT, OCS