THE ROLE OF THE SCAPULA

The scapular musculature is often neglected in designing a rehabilitat ion protocol for the shoulder. Weakness of the scapular stabilizers an d resultant altered biomechanics could result in: 1) abnormal stresses to the anterior capsular structures of the shoulder, 2) increased pos sibility of rotator cuff compression, and 3) decreased performance. Th is article presents known facts about the biomechanics of the scapula and surrounding muscles and suggests methods for evaluation of scapula r muscle weakness. Exercise techniques to maximally strengthen the sca pular musculature are also described. As our ability to document stren gth of these muscles improves, we will be able to determine the effect of scapular strengthening on improving symptoms related to impingemen t and instability. Scapular strengthening exercises are usually nonstr essful to the rotator cuff and are easily implemented into a rehabilit ation program for the shoulder.