SCAPULAR DYSKINESIA
What is Scapular Dyskinesia?
Scapular (the shoulder blade) is important for proper shoulder function. The Scapula serves as a stable base for rotator cuff activation and functioning. Any bony or soft tissue injury around the shoulder can alter the roles of the scapula in motion or at rest. Scapular dyskinesia is a condition responsible for alteration of the normal position and kinematics of the scapula rather than a disease. It can thus be found in healthy individuals or be responsible for a syndrome characterised by several symptoms and objective findings, called SICK syndrome.
What causes Scapular Dyskinesia?
It is not completely understood what causes this condition but it can be secondary to
- Poor Posture
- Muscle weakness or imbalance.
- Poor overhead mechanics, core weakness
- Overuse or repetitive motions such as throwing or serving
- Loose joints
- Previous or repeat shoulder injuries
- Kyphosis (excess curvature in upper back)
What are the signs and symptoms of Scapular Dyskinesia?
The complaints are very non-specific in this problem but can be either
- Pain and or tenderness around the scapula when using the arm overhead or carrying heavy objects with the arm at the side.
- Snapping or popping sensation around the scapula with shoulder movement
- Loss of strength with shoulder and arm use.
- Asymmetrical posture (affected side usually sits lower)
- Winging of the scapula
- Instability of the shoulder (feels like it moves out of place)
What is the treatment of Scapular Dyskinesia?
In almost all cases, the symptoms of scapular dyskinesis will improve with nonsurgical treatment. Nonsurgical treatment may include:
Pain Medicine and Physical therapy. Exercise program is made that targets the specific causes of your dyskinesis. Physical therapy usually focuses on:
- Strengthening the muscles that stabilize and move the scapula, and
- Stretching the muscles that are tight and limiting scapular motion
Does Scapular Dyskinesia need Surgery?
Most patients who have general dyskinesis due to muscle weakness or tightness do not need surgery.
However, if your dyskinesis is being caused by an injury to your shoulder joint, the doctor may perform a procedure to repair or reconstruct the injured tissues. This will be followed by rehabilitation to restore the scapula’s normal motion.
