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Related Concept Videos

Muscles of the Shoulder01:23

Muscles 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...
Muscles that Move the Arm01:31

Muscles that Move the Arm

Nine muscles are involved in arm movements. Two of these, the pectoralis major and latissimus dorsi, originate from the axial skeleton and are called axial muscles. The other seven originate from the scapula and are called the scapular muscles.
The pectoralis major has two origins. Its clavicular head originates on the medial half of the clavicle. In contrast, the sternocostal head originates on the costal cartilages of ribs 1-6, the sternum, and the aponeurosis of the external oblique of the...
Bones of the Upper Limb: Humerus01:19

Bones of the Upper Limb: Humerus

The upper limb consists of the arm, forearm, wrist, and hand bones. The humerus is the single bone of the upper arm region. Proximally, it has a large, spherical, smooth head that articulates with the glenoid cavity of the scapula to form the glenohumeral or shoulder joint. The margin of the head is the anatomical neck, a residual epiphyseal plate. Laterally it extends to form bony projections called the greater tubercle and the lesser tubercle. Next to the tubercles is the surgical neck, a...
Rheumatic Heart Disease I: Introduction01:23

Rheumatic Heart Disease I: Introduction

Rheumatic heart disease or RHD is a chronic condition that results from rheumatic fever, causing permanent damage to the heart valves.Etiology and Risk FactorsIt primarily arises from rheumatic fever, an inflammatory disease that can develop after untreated or inadequately treated group A streptococcal (GAS) pharyngitis. Streptococcus spreads through direct contact with oral or respiratory secretions. While the bacteria are the causative agents, factors like malnutrition, overcrowding, poor...

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 28, 2026

Arthroscopic Management of Massive Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears: Whole Rotator Cable Reconstruction Using Proximal Biceps Tendon Autograft
07:22

Arthroscopic Management of Massive Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears: Whole Rotator Cable Reconstruction Using Proximal Biceps Tendon Autograft

Published on: June 6, 2025

The scapula in rotator cuff disease.

W Ben Kibler1

  • 1Shoulder Center of Kentucky, Lexington, Ky., USA.

Medicine and Sport Science
|October 12, 2011
PubMed
Summary

Scapular dysfunction negatively impacts rotator cuff function, potentially causing or worsening shoulder injuries. Evaluating and correcting scapular issues is crucial for treating rotator cuff disease.

Area of Science:

  • Orthopedics
  • Sports Medicine
  • Biomechanics

Background:

  • The scapula acts as the foundational base for rotator cuff muscles.
  • Optimal scapular stabilization is essential for effective rotator cuff function during arm movements.
  • Scapular dysfunction creates an unstable base, impairing the rotator cuff's biomechanical role.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the relationship between scapular function and rotator cuff disease.
  • To highlight the role of scapular dyskinesis as a potential cause or consequence of rotator cuff dysfunction.
  • To emphasize the importance of evaluating scapular mechanics in patients with rotator cuff issues.

Main Methods:

  • Clinical examination of scapular dyskinesis and contributing factors (e.g., muscle tightness, weakness, anatomical compromise).

Related Experiment Videos

Last Updated: May 28, 2026

Arthroscopic Management of Massive Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears: Whole Rotator Cable Reconstruction Using Proximal Biceps Tendon Autograft
07:22

Arthroscopic Management of Massive Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears: Whole Rotator Cable Reconstruction Using Proximal Biceps Tendon Autograft

Published on: June 6, 2025

  • Assessment of the impact of scapular alterations on rotator cuff biomechanics.
  • Review of current understanding of scapular involvement in rotator cuff pathology.

    • Main Results:

    • Scapular dysfunction is frequently observed in rotator cuff disease, acting as either a cause or an effect.
    • Compromised anatomy, muscle tightness, and weakness are identified as potential contributors to scapular dysfunction.
    • Scapular dyskinesis directly compromises the rotator cuff's ability to facilitate optimal arm motion.

    Conclusions:

    • Scapular dyskinesis is a significant factor in rotator cuff disease.
    • Comprehensive evaluation must include assessment for scapular dyskinesis and its underlying causes.
    • Treatment plans for rotator cuff disease should incorporate scapular-focused rehabilitation programs, progressing from closed-chain to open-chain exercises.