Scapular Position Research Articles

Influence of Walking, Manual Techniques, and Elastic Resistance Exercise on Shoulder Posture in Healthy Elderly Individuals.

The world population is rapidly aging; therefore, it is necessary to respond to this challenge in time. One of the typical involutional signs of old age is a hunched posture combined with a forward position of the shoulder girdle. This posture negatively impacts various bodily functions, postural stability, and strain on the musculoskeletal system. We aimed to evaluate the effect of walking and walking combined with manual therapy/resistance exercise on scapular positioning in healthy elderly individuals. Participants of experimental groups underwent a 4-week training session that involved walking and manual techniques/resistance training applied 2x/week. Participants of the control group maintained their usual daily habits. Our results showed statistically significant improvement in scapular positioning of the left shoulder in participants who underwent regular walking combined with resistance exercise training. These results suggest that regular walking combined with resistance training, when properly dosed, may beneficially influence scapular positioning in healthy elderly individuals.

Scapular external rotation position during arm elevation related to increased glenohumeral external rotation range of motion in high school baseball players

Scapular external rotation position during arm elevation related to increased glenohumeral external rotation range of motion in high school baseball players

THE EFFECTS OF SWIMMING ON BODY POSTURE IN PRESCHOOL AGE CHILDREN

In this study we analyzed the effects of swimming on the posture of preschool children. The sample for this study consisted of 153 preschool boys and girls children aged 4-6 years (standard deviation= 1.1 years) living in Canton Sarajevo and divided into two groups of boys and girls, with one attended swimming school (n=61) and other did not (n=92). In order to evaluate the postural status, we used a reduced Napoleon Wolanski method with eight variables for the observed body parts: assessment of head posture (HPA), assessment of shoulder posture (SPA), assessment of scapular posture (SBPA), assessment of chest posture (CPA), scoliotic posture (SCP), assessment of abdominal posture (APA), assessment of leg posture (LPA), and assessment of foot posture (FPA). The results indicated a great effect of swimming on posture. We concluded the paper with some suggestions on how to incorporate swimming programs into regular school curricula.

Reduced Clavicle Length Indicates the Severity of Scapular Misalignment in Obstetric Brachial Plexus Lesions.

(1) Background: Although most brachial plexus birth palsies show some spontaneous recovery, secondary operations are likely to follow. Accordingly, due to the loss of muscle innervation, the growth of the affected limb and the shoulder girdle is reduced. This is associated with pathological scapula positioning and rotation. The objective of this work was to clarify the relationship between length differences of the two clavicles and different types of scapular dyskinesia. (2) Methods: Twenty-five patients suffering from brachial plexus birth palsy were included in this retrospective study. There were eighteen female and seven male patients with a mean age of 10 years (2 to 23 years). CT scans of the thoracic cage, including both shoulder joints and both clavicles, were obtained preoperatively between 2010 and 2012. Radiographic measurements were taken of the axial plane and 3D reconstructions were produced. Functional evaluations of possible movement and scapular dyskinesia were performed. (3) Results: We found an increasing difference in the length of the clavicle (both in absolute and relative terms) in the children with more pronounced scapular dyskinesia. Additionally, with increasing clavicle length differences, the scapula was positioned in a deteriorated angle compared to the healthy side. Significant positive correlations were identified for the age and absolute difference of the clavicle length and the length and width of the scapula on the affected side. (4) Conclusion: Scapular dyskinesia, which is a common finding in brachial plexus birth palsy, is strongly related to reduced clavicle growth. Reduced clavicle length (which is a relatively easily examinable parameter) compared to the healthy side can be used to estimate the extent of scapular malpositioning on the thoracic cage. The extent and severity of scapular dyskinesia increases with augmented differences in the length of the clavicle.

Study to Assess Scapular Dyskinesia in Older Adults of Ahmedabad

Background: A big proportion of older citizens are more vulnerable to aging, which leads in poor health and degenerative changes in various joints, which, when combined with muscle mass loss, makes daily activities harder for the elderly. Muscle mass and strength significantly deteriorate with age. The muscles that surround the scapula in the upper limb offer proximal stability during ADL activities. The muscle atrophy around the scapula makes the ADL action unsteady. The survey was carried out to assess scapular Dyskinesia in elderly Ahmedabad residents. METHODOLOGY: 40 Older peoples, above the age of 60 years old male were selected by convenient sampling. An observational study was conducted. Participants was selected according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. The modified lateral scapular slide test assessed individually and measure the difference scapular position in three different positions. RESULT: The participant mean age was 69.65 years, with 40 male people were evaluated. In general, the modified lateral scapular sliding test was used to assess older persons in Ahmedabad for scapular Dyskinesia. In which we discovered three sites of scapular Dyskinesia. In position 1, 62.5% of participants had a discrepancy of more than 1.5 cm. In position 2, 52.5% of people had a discrepancy of more than 1.5 cm. In position 3, 55% of people had a discrepancy of more than 1.5 cm. CONCLUSION The average 62.5% of older people had scapular dyskinesia. Keywords: Scapular Dyskinesia, modified lateral scapular slide test, older people.

Scapula position test reliability and comparisons of scapula position and shoulder function among individuals with and without adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

An evaluation of scapula position is important to predict spine curvature and shoulder function in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Therefore, a reliable scapula position is required to assess posture in patients with AIS. This study investigated the reliabilities of scapula position tests and differences in scapula position and shoulder function between individuals with and without AIS. The study compared 18 patients with AIS and 18 healthy controls to identify differences in scapula position and shoulder function. The acromion-table distance, lateral displacement of the scapula, acromion depression, winged scapula, upward rotation of the scapula, and anterior tilt of the scapula were measured. Scapula position test reliabilities were assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard error of measurement (SEM), and minimum clinically important difference (MCID). Shoulder function was measured using the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index. The reliabilities of scapula position tests (ICC 0.85-0.93, SEM 0.1-1.2, and MCID 0.2-2.5) were good. There were significant differences in scapula position and shoulder function between patients with AIS and healthy controls (p< 0.05). Scapula position tests were highly reliable in patients with AIS; they can be used to evaluate scapula position during clinical assessment of posture in patients with AIS.

Analysis of complication risk factors in preoperative computed tomography-guided hookwire location of pulmonary nodules

BackgroundThis study aimed to explore the efficacy of hookwire for computed tomography (CT)-guided pulmonary nodule (PN) localization before video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) resection and determine the risk factors for localization-related complications.MethodsWe enrolled 193 patients who underwent preoperative CT-guided PN hookwire localization. The patients were categorized into groups A (103 patients had no complications) and B (90 patients had complications) according to CT and VATS. Uni- and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify risk factors for localization-related complications. A numerical rating scale was used to evaluate hookwire localization-induced pain.ResultsWe successfully performed localization in 173 (89.6%) patients. Pneumothorax was the main complication in 82 patients (42.5%). Patient gender, age, body mass index, tumor diameter, consolidation tumor ratio, pathologic diagnosis, position adjustment during location, lesion location, waiting time for surgery, and pleural adhesions were not significantly different between the two groups. The number of nodules, number of punctures, scapular rest position, and depth of insertion within the lung parenchyma were significant factors for successful localization. Multivariate regression analysis further validated the number of nodules, scapular rest position, and depth of insertion within the lung parenchyma as risk factors for hookwire-localization-related complications. Hookwire localization-induced pain is mainly mild or moderate pre- and postoperatively, and some patients still experience pain 7 days postoperatively.ConclusionsHookwire preoperative PN localization has a high success rate, but some complications remain. Thus, clinicians should be vigilant and look forward to further improvement.

Correlation between the Scapular Posture and the Pressure Pain Thresholds of the Neck Muscle according to Gender

Correlation between the Scapular Posture and the Pressure Pain Thresholds of the Neck Muscle according to Gender

Reliability of scapular position and periscapular muscle strength tests in healthy subjects with forward neck and rounded shoulder posture

BACKGROUND: People with forward head posture (FHP) and rounded shoulder posture (RSP) may experience shifts in scapular position and alterations in the strength of the muscles surrounding the scapula. Therefore, a reliable scapula position and scapula muscle strength test are required to identified scapula problem and provided appropriate intervention programs. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine the reliability of scapular position measurements obtained using a modified digital inclinometer and palpation meter, as well as muscle strength using a hand-held dynamometer (HHD) in individuals with FHP and RSP. METHODS: Thirty healthy subjects underwent scapular position tests (upward rotation, anterior tilt, depression, and protraction) and strength tests of periscapular muscles (serratus anterior, upper trapezius, middle trapezius, and lower trapezius) on both the dominant and non-dominant sides. The reliability of the measurements was confirmed by computing the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), standard error of measurement (SEM), and minimal clinically important difference (MCID). Test and re-tests were conducted over a period of one week and actual values for each measurement were also obtained and assessed. RESULTS: The ICC ranged from 0.802 to 0.935 for the scapular position tests and from 0.808 to 0.949 for muscle strength tests on the dominant and non-dominant sides. For scapular position tests, SEM values ranged from 0.3 cm to 0.6 cm (protraction and depression), from 1.0∘ to 1.7∘ (upward rotation and anterior tilt) and MCID values ranged from 0.7 cm to 1.6 cm (protraction and depression), from 2.8∘ to 4.7∘ (upward rotation and anterior tilt). Regarding muscle strength tests, SEM and MCID values were in the range 14.4N–27.3N and 39.9N–75.7N, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Scapular position and periscapular muscle strength can be reproducibly measured in healthy subjects individuals with FHP and RSP. These instruments can hence be recommended for evaluating these functional traits in subjects with FHP and RSP.

Efficacy of head postural correction program on craniovertebral angle, scapular position, and dominant hand grip strength in forward head posture subjects: A randomized controlled trial.

Forward head posture (FHP) is a common postural disorder that alters shoulder function. This study examined the efficacy of a corrective program involving postural correction exercises (PCEs), scapular stabilization exercises (SSEs), and kinesiotaping (KT) on improving craniovertebral angle (CVA), scapular position, and dominant hand grip strength (HGS) in individuals with FHP. Sixty subjects (8 males and 52 females, 18-40years old) were randomly allocated into four equal groups: Group A: received PCEs only, Group B: received PCEs and SSEs, Group C: received PCEs and KT, Group D: received PCEs, SSEs and KT. All subjects received treatment for 4weeks (4 times/week) and postural advice. Outcome measures included cranio-vertebral angle (CVA), scapular position using Lateral Scapular Slide Test and dominant HGS using a CAMRY dynamometer that were assessed at baseline and 4weeks post intervention. Comparing all groups post training revealed that there were statistically significant increases (p<0.05) in all measured variables (CVA, scapular position and dominant HGS) in favor of group (D). Combination of PCEs, SSEs and KT interventions has achieved the best gains in terms of CVA, dominant HGS and regaining optimal scapular position in FHP subjects.

EFFECT OF SCAPULAR TAPING ON PAIN, DISABILITY AND PROPRIOCEPTION IN SUBJECTS WITH SHOULDER IMPINGEMENT SYNDROME: A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL

Context: Shoulder Impingement Syndrome (SIS) is a common clinical condition in general practice and overhead athletes. Alterations in the scapular position can lead to shoulder impingement syndrome. The effect of exercises on shoulder impingement syndrome is studied but the effect of Kinesiotape is not well explored. Methods: A total of 42 participants were included in the study. The subjects were assessed for SPADI, pain, proprioception, lateral scapula slide test, and pectoral minor length test at the baseline and the subjects were randomly divided into two groups. The intervention group ([Formula: see text] = 18) received scapular taping and scapular exercises and the control group ([Formula: see text] = 17) received scapular exercises only. Post-outcome measures were taken at 4 weeks and 12 weeks during the intervention. Repeated measures ANOVA was used for the outcome measures and Bonferroni’s test was used to determine the pairwise comparisons at different measurement levels amongst experimental and control groups. Results: The study consisted of 17 males and 18 females. There was statistical significance in both groups ([Formula: see text] &lt; 0.01) over the 4th and 12th weeks. Pain ([Formula: see text] &lt; 0.01) and proprioception ([Formula: see text] = 0.017) was also statistically significant between both the groups at 4 weeks. Conclusion: This study concludes that scapular taping can be used as an adjunct with scapular involvement.

Evaluation of a method to quantify posture and scapula position using biplanar radiography

BackgroundRecent studies have stated the relevance of having new parameters to quantify the position and orientation of the scapula with patients standing upright. Although biplanar radiography can provide 3D reconstructions of the scapula and the spine, it is not yet possible to acquire these images with patients in the same position. MethodsTwo pairs of images were acquired, one for the 3D reconstruction of the spine and ribcage and one for the 3D reconstruction of the scapula. Following 3D reconstructions, scapular alignment was performed in two stages, a coarse alignment based on manual annotations of landmarks on the clavicle and pelvis, and an adjusted alignment. Clinical parameters were computed: protraction, internal rotation, tilt and upward rotation. Reproducibility was assessed on an in vivo dataset of upright biplanar radiographs. Accuracy was assessed using supine cadaveric CT-scans and digitally reconstructed radiographs. FindingsThe mean error was less than 2° for all clinical parameters, and the 95 % confidence interval for reproducibility ranged from 2.5° to 5.3°. InterpretationThe confidence intervals were lower than the variability measured between participants for the clinical parameters assessed, which indicates that this method has the potential to detect different patterns in pathological populations.

Relation between spine alignment and scapular position by plain radiograph examination

BackgroundBoth scapular dynamics and static scapular position are important in treatment of shoulder dysfunction. This study aimed to create an index that can evaluate scapular position on plain radiographs and evaluate the relation between scapular position and posture accurately. MethodsUsing four fresh frozen cadavers, we developed a glenoid angle grade based on the degree of overlap between the shadow of the coracoid inflection point and the upper edge of the scapula on frontal plain radiographs: grade 1, no overlap; grade 2, overlaps by less than half of the shadow; grade 3, overlaps by more than half. We then performed a retrospective cohort study that included 329 shoulders of 329 patients who underwent spine surgery. Spine alignment parameters (SPAPs), including cervical lordosis (CL), thoracic kyphosis (TK), lumbar lordosis (LL), pelvic incidence, pelvic tilt, sacral slope, and sagittal vertical axis (SVA) were measured on standing lateral plain radiographs. Glenoid anterior tilt (GAT) and glenoid anteversion angle (GAVA) were calculated on frontal radiographs and three-dimensional computed tomography scans. Correlations between SPAPs and each angle were investigated, and independent influencing factors were sought in multivariate analysis. Individual factors, GAT, GAVA, and SPAPs were compared among the grades. ResultsSPAPs associated with GAT were SVA (R = 0.14, p = 0.011), TK (R = 0.12, p = 0.026), and LL (R = -0.11, p = 0.046). Multivariate analysis identified TK and LL as independent influencing factors (TK, p = 0.001; LL, p = 0.008). SPAPs associated with GAVA were CL (R = 0.17, p = 0.002) and TK (R = 0.29, p < 0.001), LL (R = 0.25, p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis identified CL, TK and LL as independent influencing factors (CL, p = 0.01; TK, p = 0.03; LL, p = 0.03). There were 183, 127, and 19 cases categorized as grades 1, 2 and 3. GAT (grade 1, 24.0±7.8; 2, 32.4±7.0; 3, 41.0±7.8), GAVA (1, 29.3±7.6; 2, 33.7±9.5; 3, 31.5±8.3), and TK (1, 30.6±13.6; 2, 35.1±14.2; 3, 43.1±20.4) differed significantly according to grade. ConclusionsWe identified factors that influence scapular position and demonstrated that scapular position can be estimated by a grading system using plain radiographs.

Effect of functional electrical stimulation of interscapular muscles on trunk performance and balance in post-stroke elderly patients

BackgroundDisability in the upper limb in post-stroke survivors may have a variety of effects, particularly in the elderly, that require planning therapeutic actions to restore function. Thirty-four patients were randomly assigned to the control group (CON) and the Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) group. For 12 weeks, the CON group received core stabilization exercises (CSEs). The FES group received (FES) for the interscapular muscles with CSEs for the first six weeks and completed the following six weeks with only CSEs. Patients were assessed at baseline, 6 and 12 weeks post-intervention. The trunk impairment scale (TIS) and the Postural Assessment Scale for Stroke (PASS) were used to assess trunk performance. A palpation meter was used to measure the scapular horizontal position (SP). Balance was assessed by the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), and the Timed Up-and-Go test (TUG). Function was assessed with Barthel Index (BI).ResultsBoth groups improved significantly (P < 0.001 for both groups, d = 1.1–3.7 for control group and d = 1.9–6.1 for FES group) post-treatment (at 6 and 12 weeks) in all outcomes except SP in the control group (P < 0.05 at both times, d = 0.6 at 6 weeks and 0.8 at 12 weeks).ConclusionFES for interscapular muscles may have positive effects on trunk performance, scapular position, balance, and function in stroke patients. Also, additional improvements were observed post-intervention compared to baseline. FES is recommended to be part of the rehabilitation program of elderly post-stroke patients.

Association of Breast-Feeding Positions with Scapular Dyskinesia in Postpartum Females

Background: Breastfeeding is a vital activity for the nurturing and development of infants. However, the postures adopted during breastfeeding may have implications for the physical well-being of postpartum females, particularly concerning scapular dyskinesia—a condition characterized by altered scapular movement and positioning, which can affect shoulder function. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the association between different breastfeeding positions and the prevalence of scapular dyskinesia among postpartum females, providing insights into the potential musculoskeletal implications of breastfeeding practices. Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted involving 111 postpartum females aged 18-45 years, who had been breastfeeding for six months or more. Participants were recruited using non-probability convenient sampling from various hospitals in Lahore, Pakistan. Data on breastfeeding positions and the occurrence of scapular dyskinesia were collected through self-administered questionnaires and the Scapular Dyskinesia Test (SDT) by McClure, respectively. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize participant demographics and breastfeeding practices, while the chi-square test was employed to examine the association between breastfeeding positions and scapular dyskinesia. Results: Among the participants, the cradle hold was the most commonly used breastfeeding position (82.0%), followed by the cross cradle (13.5%), side-lying (3.6%), and laid-back positions (0.9%). The prevalence of scapular dyskinesia was 41.4%, with no statistically significant association found between breastfeeding positions and scapular dyskinesia (p-value = 0.06). Additionally, upper back pain was reported by 39.6% of the participants, indicating a notable presence of musculoskeletal discomfort. Conclusion: The study concluded that there is no significant association between breastfeeding positions and scapular dyskinesia among postpartum females. Despite the high prevalence of scapular dyskinesia and musculoskeletal discomfort, the type of breastfeeding position does not appear to influence the likelihood of developing scapular dyskinesia. These findings suggest the need for further research into the factors contributing to musculoskeletal health in postpartum females and the development of guidelines for breastfeeding practices that promote maternal comfort and physical well-being.

Evaluation of Scapular Dynamics in Sports Trainees

Background: The scapula provides stability and mobility for efficient upper-limb movement. Optimal scapular kinematics are essential for efficient force generation and injury prevention. Sports trainees, particularly those involved in sports requiring repetitive or high-intensity shoulder movements, are susceptible to injuries and performance limitations if associated with aberrant scapular mechanics. Understanding the intricacies of scapular dynamics is essential for designing tailored training interventions that enhance athletic performance. Rationale and objectives: Previous research has emphasized the need for sports-specific training protocols. The measurement of scapular rotation has gained significant attention. Evaluating asymmetries in scapular dynamics across various sports trainee populations is a step forward for the need for tailored interventions and injury prevention strategies in preventing injury and planning better exercise programs. The study uses a PALM meter for the measurement of scapular rotation. Methodology: 40 Subjects 19 to 24 years old from the sports authority of Andhra Pradesh, India, were studied after obtaining written informed consent. Scapular rotation measured in a neutral and with hands on the hip position. Root of the scapula (RSS), inferior angle of the scapula (IAS), and spinous processes (Sp) of C7 to T8 are taken as the anatomical landmarks. Measurements of scapular position taken in two arm positions: shoulder neutral, hands on hip. A right-angle triangle created by dropping a perpendicular line from the scapula's root to intersect the horizontal line between the scapula's inferior angle and the thoracic spine's closest spinous process (IAS-Sp). The hypotenuse represents the distance IAS to RSS, while the side opposite the angle θ is the distance IAS-Sp minus RSS-Sp. A positive result indicates upward scapular rotation, while a negative result indicates downward scapular rotation. Results and Conclusion: This cross-sectional study revealed variations in scapular rotation and the distances from spinous processes in the scapular position in neutral and hands-on Hip positions from right to left and male to female. Further studies are required to understand scapular rotation variations concerning various sports involving overhead activity, heavy weight lifting, endurance sports and anatomical variations, muscle activation patterns, or task demands. KEYWORDS: Scapular Rotation, Sports Trainees, Shoulder Movements, Scapular Mechanics, Athletic Performance.

Relationship between Upper Limb Functional Assessment and Clinical Tests of Shoulder Mobility and Posture in Individuals Participating in Recreational Strength Training.

The upper limb is crucial for functioning in everyday life, thus comprehensive assessment is crucial for physically active people to monitor the effect of exercise and prevent injuries. The aim of this study was to analyse the relationship between upper limb function, shoulder mobility, and posture in individuals who participate in recreational strength training. Thirty-four subjects who engaged in strength training of the upper limbs were divided into two groups: Group 1 (exercise < 3 years) and Group 2 (exercise ≥ 3 years). Lateral scapular slide tests, head and clavicle posture evaluations, and shoulder mobility and closed kinetic chain tests were performed. Group 1 had a greater flexion deficit in both shoulders than Group 2. There was greater external rotation in the non-dominant shoulder and a greater score of the closed kinetic chain test in Group 2 compared to Group 1. There were no statistically significant differences between groups regarding scapula, clavicle, and head posture. The closed kinetic chain test was correlated with a scapula position and symmetry in shoulder flexion in Group 2. Long-term strength training of the upper limbs can be recommended to improve functional abilities in the closed kinetic chain, increase shoulder mobility, and reduce asymmetry.

Investigating scapula positioning in individuals with non-specific lower back pain: A preliminary study

IntroductionLow back pain (LBP) is an economic and physically disabling burden on individuals and society. With 70% of cases classed as non-specific, there is a need for further research into the causes and consequences associated. The involvement of postural balance in musculoskeletal conditions is gaining increasing interest in research and health practice. However, there is a lack of literature surrounding LBP and posture in distal segments of the body. ObjectiveThe current study investigated scapula positioning in those with non-specific LBP. MethodsScapula angle of rotation, scapula protraction, and scapula elevation were assessed in nine participants with chronic non-specific LBP and compared with that of nine asymptomatic controls (aged 18–60 years). The degree of pelvic tilt was assessed across both groups as a secondary outcome measure. ResultsNo difference was identified between the two sample groups for scapula angle of rotation (p = 0.707), protraction (p = 0.755), or elevation (p = 0.691). Anterior pelvic tilt was greater in those with LBP (p = 0.046), supporting previous literature. ConclusionThe findings for the scapula position are novel, given that research in this field is limited. It is concluded that there is no change in scapula positioning in those with non-specific LBP, but there is an increased anterior pelvic tilt.

Effects of an 8-Week Corrective Dance Exercises Intervention on Thoracic Hyperkyphosis, Scapular Position, Respiratory Function, and Happiness in Girls Aged 10-12Years.

This study examined the impact of an 8-week corrective dance intervention on thoracic hyperkyphosis, scapular position, breathing, and happiness in girls aged 10-12years. Sixty participants were randomly assigned to either an experimental (EX) or control (CO) group. The intervention involved rhythmic and corrective movements conducted 3 times a week. Measurements were taken before and after the intervention for thoracic hyperkyphosis angle, scapular position, lung function, and happiness levels. EX showed greater improvements (P = .001) than CO for the decrement of thoracic hyperkyphosis angle (48.20-42.80°) than in CO (47.66°-46.59°), and scapular position improved more (P = .003) in EX (1.48°-1.20°) than in CO (1.44°-1.42°). Forced vital capacity (P = .001) and forced expiratory volume in 1second (P = .001) significantly increased in EX (FVC: 2.65-3.40L; FEV1: 2.32-2.74L), while they remained stable in CO. Happiness levels significantly improved (P = .001) in EX (42.20-49.79) and slightly decreased in CO (41.80-40.15). The 8-week dance program improved posture, scapular position, breathing, and happiness in girls aged 10-12years. It enhances physical health, emotional well-being, and social skills in children and adolescents.

Ab. No. 97 The Effect of Different Scapular Positions on Serratus Anterior and Biceps Brachii Muscle Activity During a Forward Reach Task in Healthy Individuals

Introduction: To study the effects of scapular protraction/retraction and neutral position on serratus anterior and biceps brachii muscle activity during a forward reach task in healthy individuals. Normal functioning of the scapula plays a key role in shoulder kinematics. Forward reaching is an integral activity for ADL’s and is a key neuro rehabilitation component. For example, posture that is usually adapted by people with stroke leads to inappropriate positioning of scapula that in turn can disrupt the muscle timing and activation slowing the rehabilitation process. Understanding the muscle activity in healthy individuals can give us a deeper insight to expand our knowledge for rehabilitation. Methods: 19 healthy subjects were selected under convenience sampling. Subjects were asked to perform a forward reach task. Three trials were taken for each scapular position. Surface electrodes recorded EMG activity of serratus anterior and biceps brachii muscle during the task. Average values were taken for analysis. Shapiro - Wilk test was done to analyse normality. The difference between the three positions of scapula (protraction, retraction and neutral) was established for serratus anterior (Fisher’s ANOVA) and biceps (Kruskal-Wallis) along with Post hoc analysis. Correlation between two muscles (serratus and biceps) was established using Spearman’s Correlation Coefficient. Results: Serratus muscle activity (F=0.135, p= 0.874) and biceps (F=0.29, p=0.7). did not achieve statistical significance among the three positions. Statistically significant correlation was found across the positions between biceps and serratus (r2 =0.58,p&lt;0.001). Conclusion: Mean activity of serratus anterior muscle did not change with different scapular positions. However, biceps brachii muscle activity was highest with scapula being in retraction and lowest in protraction. Moderate correlation was found between SA and biceps across positions. Implications: The starting position of scapula may have implications on muscle activation and therefore can impact rehabilitation outcomes.