Scapulohumeral Rhythm

Scapulohumeral rhythm is extremely important to shoulder range of motion but what is it? The scapulohumeral rhythm is the ratio of the movement between the scapula and the humerus. In normal range of motion of 180° of shoulder elevation, the glenohumeral joint will move 2° for every 1° moved at the scapulothoracic joint. So, it is extremely important that the humerus and scapula are moving in synchrony. If the scapula becomes fixed in retraction and does not upwardly rotate, then the arm cannot flex correctly. This can cause contralateral trunk flexion as a compensatory movement to try to get the arm up higher. Making sure the humerus and scapula are moving and working together can help prevent injury to the glenohumeral joint, bursae and ligaments surrounding the shoulder. Proper scapulohumeral movement requires the scapula to protract and upwardly rotate. Clinically, therapists must pay close attention to this rhythm when assessing the shoulder girdle. Therapist should move the humerus while also having a hand on the scapula to ensure proper movement of both segments. This movement is extremely important in everyday tasks because of how much we move our arm over head to wash or brush our hair, dress ourselves and get something out of a high cupboard. If there is limited ROM here, then several occupations and activities of daily living can be effected.

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