Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 21, 2026

Measurement of Dynamic Scapular Kinematics Using an Acromion Marker Cluster to Minimize Skin Movement Artifact
Published on: February 10, 2015
Effects of sex differences on scapular motion during arm elevation
Takashi Nagamatsu1, Yoshihiro Kai2, Masafumi Gotoh3
1Department of Physical Therapy, Fukuoka Rehabilitation College 3-29-17 Hakataekimae Hakata-ku, Fukuoka-si, Fukuoka Japan.
Males exhibit greater scapular upward rotation, while females show greater internal rotation during arm elevation. These sex differences in scapular motion are important for shoulder disorder evaluation and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Biomechanics
- Human Movement Science
Background:
- Scapular motion is crucial for assessing shoulder disorders.
- Previous studies often lacked focus on sex-based differences in scapular kinematics.
- Understanding these differences is vital for accurate clinical interpretation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate sex differences in three-dimensional scapular motion during arm elevation.
- To provide foundational data on scapular kinematics in healthy males and females.
Main Methods:
- Employed 3D dynamic analysis of arm elevation in 37 healthy adults (18 males, 19 females).
- Utilized an electromagnetic tracking device to record kinematic data.
- Calculated scapular upward rotation, internal rotation, and posterior tilt angles.
Main Results:
- Significant sex differences observed in upward and internal rotation angles.
- Males demonstrated greater scapular upward rotation.
- Females showed greater scapular internal rotation; no sex difference in posterior tilt.
Conclusions:
- Study provides essential baseline data on sex-specific scapular motion during arm elevation.
- Highlights the need to consider sex differences in the clinical evaluation and treatment of shoulder conditions.
Related Concept Videos
Muscles that Move the Arm
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...
Muscles of the Shoulder
Anterior Thoracic Muscles
The anterior thoracic muscles include the serratus anterior, subclavius, and...
Changes in the Appendicular Skeleton with Age
Initially, the limb buds consist of a core of mesenchyme covered by a layer of ectoderm. The ectoderm at the end of the limb bud thickens to form a narrow crest called the apical ectodermal ridge. This ridge stimulates the underlying...
Bones of the Upper Limb: Humerus
Signs of Puberty
Muscle Coordination and Action
Agonists
Agonist muscles, often called prime movers, are the primary muscles responsible for producing a specific movement....

