Comparison of Scapular Stabilization and Thoracic Extension Exercises in Patients With Scapular Dyskinesis

Overview

Scapular dyskinesis is defined as a visible alteration in scapular movement and position during rest or while performing dynamic motions causing a breakage in kinetic chain. Kinematic studies in subjects with scapular dysfunction showed decrease posterior tilt of scapula, increased scapular upward rotation and changes in glenohumeral to scapulothoracic ratios. Scapular dyskinesis can be categorized into 3 types according to standard classification. Type I is the posterior displacement of infero-medial angle due to excessive anterior tilt in sagittal plane, type II is the displacement of entire medial angle from posterior thorax caused by excessive internal rotation and dysrhythmic movement of scapula excessive elevation of superior border during scapular elevation is distinguished as type III . Almost 90% of office workers presenting with scapular and neck complains present with scapular dyskinesis . Shoulder dysfunction occur in up to 68% of individuals presenting with scapular dyskinesis

Specific treatment of scapular dyskinesis include moist heat packs, soft tissue mobilization, strength and flexibility exercises of scapular muscles along with postural re-education. Acknowledging the role of scapula in upper extremity functions, integration of scapular stabilization exercises is shown to be more efficient than strengthening and stretching exercises for enhancing shoulder proprioception, optimizing muscle strength and decreasing dyskinesis. Scapular stabilization exercises defined as exercises aimed at gaining stability and strength of scapular muscles and increasing neuromuscular control to maintain the proper position of the scapula. These exercises increase fiber strength, mass, capillaries volume thus increasing the blood flow of muscle. Mobility of Thoracic spine is an important factor to consider while treating scapular dyskinesis as reduced thoracic mobility can result in dramatic reduction of shoulder range of motion . So a rehabilitation protocol based on the scapula dynamic stability to restore the position, direction and movement pattern of scapula by stabilizing and retraining the scapular muscles is a possible intervention strategy for improving recovery and preventing shoulder dysfunction. Numerous exercises had been proposed for rehabilitation of dyskinesis, but it lack consensus on which exercise is effective in each type of dyskinesia. As different types of scapular dyskinesia have different manifestations of muscle imbalance