Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 2, 2026
10:07
Measurement of Dynamic Scapular Kinematics Using an Acromion Marker Cluster to Minimize Skin Movement Artifact
Published on: February 10, 2015
Scapular position: the validity of skin surface palpation
1Department of Physiotherapy, Chelsea and Westminster Healthcare NHS Trust, London. jeremy.lewis@chelwest.nhs.uk
Manual Therapy
|March 9, 2002
Summary
Surface palpation is a valid method for assessing scapular resting position and upper quadrant posture. This study confirms palpation accurately identifies bony landmarks on the scapula and thorax.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Biomechanics
- Clinical Assessment
Background:
- Assessing the resting position of the scapula is crucial for evaluating upper quadrant posture.
- Accurate landmark identification is essential for reliable postural assessments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To validate surface palpation as an accurate method for determining the resting position of the scapula.
- To compare surface palpation findings with actual bony landmark locations on the scapula and thoracic spine.
Main Methods:
- Twelve embalmed shoulders were utilized for the study.
- Surface palpation was used to identify three scapular and three thoracic bony landmarks.
- The palpated locations were compared against the actual bony positions to determine accuracy.
Main Results:
- Surface palpation demonstrated high accuracy for scapular landmarks, with confidence intervals for differences ranging from 0.46 cm to 0.98 cm.
- Accuracy for thoracic landmarks was also confirmed, with confidence intervals for differences ranging from 1.01 cm to 1.46 cm.
- The findings indicate minimal deviation between palpated and actual bony landmark positions.
Conclusions:
- Surface palpation is a valid and reliable method for assessing the resting position of the scapular.
- Palpation can accurately identify thoracic landmarks, providing valuable reference points for scapular positioning assessments.
- These findings support the use of surface palpation in clinical settings for postural evaluation.
Related Concept Videos
01:14Assessing Body Temperature - Axilla
Procedural Guide for Assessing Axillary Body Temperature using a Digital Thermometer:
Step 1: Perform hand hygiene and put on clean gloves to maintain infection control and prevent cross-contamination.
Step 2: Prepare the patient by explaining the procedure to ensure understanding and cooperation. Ensure privacy, expose the axilla, and inform the patient that minimal movement is crucial for an accurate reading.
Step 3: Adjust the patient’s clothing to expose only the axilla. It minimizes...
Step 1: Perform hand hygiene and put on clean gloves to maintain infection control and prevent cross-contamination.
Step 2: Prepare the patient by explaining the procedure to ensure understanding and cooperation. Ensure privacy, expose the axilla, and inform the patient that minimal movement is crucial for an accurate reading.
Step 3: Adjust the patient’s clothing to expose only the axilla. It minimizes...
01:30Assessment of Airway, Skin Color, and Use of Accessory Muscles
A thorough assessment of respiratory health is paramount in clinical settings to identify and manage respiratory distress and ensure adequate oxygenation. This article elaborates on the critical aspects of respiratory evaluation, including airway assessment, skin color examination, and the observation of accessory muscle use, which are integral to effectively diagnosing and managing patients with respiratory conditions.
Introduction
The initial evaluation of a patient's respiratory system...
Introduction
The initial evaluation of a patient's respiratory system...
01:23Muscles of the Shoulder
The muscles surrounding the shoulder girdle, including the clavicle and scapula, primarily stabilize the scapula. This stable base allows other muscles to move the humerus effectively. Scapular movements often mirror those of the humerus and extend its range of motion. For instance, raising the arm above the head would not be feasible without simultaneous upward rotation of the scapula.
Anterior Thoracic Muscles
The anterior thoracic muscles include the serratus anterior, subclavius, and...
Anterior Thoracic Muscles
The anterior thoracic muscles include the serratus anterior, subclavius, and...
01:24Physical Assessment of the Respiratory Tract II: Palpation
Physical assessment of the respiratory tract is critical in identifying potential health issues. One key component of this assessment is palpation, a technique healthcare providers use to assess the body for abnormalities. This content explores the method of palpation in evaluating the respiratory tract, focusing on thoracic palpation and tactile fremitus.
Thoracic Palpation
Thoracic palpation detects tenderness, masses, lesions, respiratory excursions, and vocal fremitus. The nurse assesses...
Thoracic Palpation
Thoracic palpation detects tenderness, masses, lesions, respiratory excursions, and vocal fremitus. The nurse assesses...
01:23Assessment of the Abdomen III: Palpation
Palpation is a crucial tactile examination method for assessing abdominal organs and detecting conditions like tenderness, distention, masses, or fluid. It involves both light and deep palpation techniques, each serving specific diagnostic purposes. Light palpation helps identify tenderness and other surface-level indicators, while deep palpation locates and assess abdominal masses and organ boundaries. A skilled professional can gather valuable insights through palpation, including evaluating...
01:27Assessment of the Cardiovascular System III: Palpation
Palpation involves feeling the body to evaluate texture, size, consistency, and tenderness for assessing cardiovascular health. The following steps are organized in a head-to-toe order:
Jugular Venous Pressure (JVP) Measurement
Position the patient at a thirty- to forty-five-degree angle or in a semi-fowler's position. Look for the highest point of pulsation in the internal jugular vein and measure the vertical distance to the angle of Loius or sternal angle. A normal JVP is 3-4 cm above the...
Jugular Venous Pressure (JVP) Measurement
Position the patient at a thirty- to forty-five-degree angle or in a semi-fowler's position. Look for the highest point of pulsation in the internal jugular vein and measure the vertical distance to the angle of Loius or sternal angle. A normal JVP is 3-4 cm above the...