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Updated: Aug 14, 2026
Measurement of Dynamic Scapular Kinematics Using an Acromion Marker Cluster to Minimize Skin Movement Artifact
Published on: February 10, 2015
Scapular kinematics during supraspinatus rehabilitation exercise: a comparison of full-can versus empty-can
Charles A Thigpen1, Darin A Padua, Nicholas Morgan
1Interdisciplinary Program in Human Movement Science, Sports Medicine Research Lab, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, CB# 8700, 06F Fetzer Gym, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA. cthigpen@email.unc.edu
Background:
Supraspinatus strengthening is an important component of shoulder rehabilitation. Previous work has determined that the full-can and empty-can exercises elicit the greatest amount of supraspinatus activity. However, scapular kinematics has not been considered when prescribing supraspinatus exercises.
Hypothesis:
Scapular downward rotation, internal rotation, and anterior tipping during the empty-can exercise are increased when compared with the full-can exercise.
Study Design:
Descriptive laboratory study.
Methods:
Twenty participants performed full-can and empty-can exercises while an electromagnetic tracking system was used to collect three-dimensional scapular kinematic data. Scapular angles at 30 degrees, 60 degrees, and 90 degrees of the ascending and descending phases of humeral elevation were compared using 2-way repeated measures analysis of variance.
Results:
There was more scapular anterior tipping and internal rotation during the empty-can exercise at all sampled humeral elevation angles except at 30 degrees of the descending phase for anterior/posterior tipping (P < .05).
Conclusion:
Scapular anterior tipping and internal rotation are increased during the empty-can exercise, whereas scapular upward rotation was not different between exercises.
Clinical Relevance:
Increased scapular internal rotation and anterior tipping decrease the volume of the supraspinatus outlet during the empty-can exercise. When maintenance of the subacromial space is important, use of the full-can exercise seems most appropriate for selective strengthening of the supraspinatus muscle.
