Dorsal scapular neuropathy causing rhomboids palsy and scapular winging

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Orthopedics
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Scapular winging (SW) is typically caused by long thoracic or spinal accessory nerve damage.
• Dorsal scapular nerve (DSN) lesions leading to SW are uncommon, with limited case reports focusing on rhomboid paralysis.

Observation:

• This report details an unusual case of a young patient presenting with right-sided scapular winging.
• The condition was diagnosed as dorsal scapular neuropathy resulting in rhomboid muscle palsy.

Findings:

• The study highlights the rarity of scapular winging secondary to dorsal scapular nerve lesions and rhomboid paralysis.
• Conservative management and rehabilitation are effective for mild to moderate DSN injuries or rhomboid muscle damage.

Implications:

• Physiotherapy, particularly trapezius muscle strengthening, is recommended to compensate for rhomboid weakness.
• This approach offers a viable conservative strategy for managing specific types of scapular winging.
• Further research into DSN injuries and their rehabilitation protocols is warranted.