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Updated: Jul 10, 2026
10:07
Measurement of Dynamic Scapular Kinematics Using an Acromion Marker Cluster to Minimize Skin Movement Artifact
Published on: February 10, 2015
Scapulohumeral rhythm and associated spinal motion
Jack Crosbie1, Sharon L Kilbreath, Luise Hollmann
1Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Sydney, P.O. Box 170, East Street, Lidcombe, NSW 1825, Australia. J.Crosbie@usyd.edu.au
Clinical Biomechanics (Bristol, Avon)
|November 6, 2007
Summary
Upper limb movement significantly impacts shoulder and spine motion, with notable differences between dominant and non-dominant sides. Clinical shoulder assessments should incorporate the thoracic spine.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Human Movement Science
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Investigating the complex interplay of upper limb, shoulder girdle, and spinal kinematics.
- Understanding movement coordination during various arm elevation tasks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the coordination of humeral, scapular, and thoracolumbar spine motions.
- To compare unilateral and bilateral upper limb movements across different planes.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a 6-degree-of-freedom electromagnetic tracking system to measure segment orientations.
- Recorded scapular, humeral, and spinal kinematics in 32 healthy women during arm elevations.
- Computed segmental displacements according to International Society of Biomechanics standards.
Main Results:
- Consistent, synchronous interactions observed between humeral, scapular, and thoracic segments.
- Greater scapular upward rotation on the non-dominant side across all movement planes and conditions.
- Significant differences in spinal motion and scapular rotation ranges between unilateral and bilateral arm movements.
Conclusions:
- Arm elevation profoundly influences shoulder girdle and thoracic spine mechanics.
- Clinical shoulder evaluations must integrate assessment of the thoracic spine for comprehensive patient care.
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