The shoulder is composed of three bones: the clavicle, the scapula, and the proximal humerus. Proper scapular motion and stability allows the humeral head to remain properly seated in the glenoid during shoulder motion and provides a solid base from which rotator cuff muscles can move the humerus. The muscles primarily responsible for scapular stability and motion are the trapezius, serratus anterior, rhomboids, and levator scapulae. The weakness of the muscles that stabilize the scapula predisposes the patient to shoulder impingement syndrome.
What is impingement syndrome?
This term refers to a combination of a patient’s shoulder symptoms and exam findings that indicate there is compression of structures around the shoulder joint that occurs when the arm is lifted overhead. This compression causes persistent pain and dysfunction in the shoulder, which can result in shoulder injuries.
What are the symptoms?
You may experience pain with overhead activities. The pain may be localized to the deltoid area or lateral arm and often occurs at night or when lying on the affected shoulder. Throwing athletes complain of shoulder stiffness and a difficult or prolonged warm-up period.
How do I strengthen my scapular muscles?
We offer a scapular strengthening program at our clinic. You may strengthen your scapula through supervised physical therapy, or with a proper exercise program. Our patients receive a proper home exercise program with the necessary equipment that will improve scapular strength. If you are experiencing shoulder pain, this could be the cause. Call our office or click here to schedule an appointment and learn more! We’d love to meet you.
