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10:07
Measurement of Dynamic Scapular Kinematics Using an Acromion Marker Cluster to Minimize Skin Movement Artifact
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Rib Bone Stress Injuries in a Novice Golfer With Chronic Scapular Dysfunction: A Case Report
Justin Carrard1,2,3,4,5, George Rublev6,7, Marcelo Bordalo8
1Division of Sport and Exercise Medicine, Department of Sport, Exercise and Health, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland, unibas.ch.
Case Reports in Orthopedics
|May 28, 2026
Summary
Scapular dyskinesia, a shoulder dysfunction, may be a risk factor for rare rib bone stress injuries (BSIs) in golfers. This case highlights the need to assess scapular health in athletes with unusual thoracic pain.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Orthopedics
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Rib bone stress injuries (BSIs) are uncommon in athletes, primarily seen in rotational sports like golf.
- Scapular dyskinesia is a known risk factor for shoulder injuries, but its link to rib BSIs is undocumented.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential role of scapular dyskinesia as a biomechanical risk factor for rib BSIs in a golfer.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 25-year-old male golfer with left medial scapular pain.
- Clinical examination for scapular dyskinesia and thoracic pain.
- Shoulder and chest MRI to rule out neuromuscular issues and identify rib injuries.
Main Results:
- The patient presented with significant left scapular dyskinesia.
- MRI confirmed nondisplaced BSIs in the left posterior fifth and sixth ribs.
- Neuromuscular abnormalities were excluded.
Conclusions:
- This case suggests scapular dyskinesia may be a novel biomechanical risk factor for rib BSIs in golf.
- Clinicians should consider underlying scapular dysfunction in athletes with atypical thoracic pain.
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