Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 15, 2026
Measurement of Dynamic Scapular Kinematics Using an Acromion Marker Cluster to Minimize Skin Movement Artifact
Published on: February 10, 2015
The relationship between latissimus dorsi stiffness and altered scapular kinematics among asymptomatic collegiate
Kevin G Laudner1, Jeffrey G Williams
1Illinois State University, School of Kinesiology and Recreation, Campus Box 5120, Normal, IL 61790, USA. klaudner@ilstu.edu
Objectives:
To determine the strength of the relationship between latissimus dorsi stiffness and altered scapular kinematics among swimmers.
Design:
Cross sectional.
Setting:
Laboratory.
Participants:
Nineteen NCAA Division III swimmers (7 male, 12 female) (age = 18.8 ± 0.9 years, height = 174.7 ± 8.9 cm, mass = 71.6 ± 11.9 kg) volunteered to participate. Subjects had no recent history of upper extremity pathology or any previous surgery.
Interventions:
We measured latissimus dorsi stiffness of the dominant arm while in a lengthened position with a myotonometer. We used an electromagnetic tracking device with specialized software to measure scapular kinematics at humeral elevation angles of 30°, 60°, 90°, and 110° within the scapular plane.
Main Outcome Measures:
Latissimus dorsi stiffness and scapular upward/downward rotation, internal/external rotation, and anterior/posterior tilt.
Results:
Latissimus dorsi stiffness showed moderate-to-good relationships with increased scapular upward rotation (r > -0.63, P < 0.002) and posterior tilt (r > -0.62, P < 0.004) at all four angles of humeral elevation. Increased latissimus dorsi stiffness also showed moderate-to-good relationships with decreased scapular internal rotation at humeral elevation angles of 60° (r = 0.47, P = 0.03) and 90° (r = 0.54, P = 0.01).
Conclusions:
Our results suggest there are several moderate-to-good relationships between increased latissimus dorsi stiffness in swimmers and altered scapular upward rotation, internal rotation, and posterior tilt at various angles of humeral elevation. If latissimus dorsi stiffness is not addressed subsequent scapular alterations, which have been associated with shoulder dysfunction, may occur.
