Effects of Forward Head and Rounded Shoulder Posture on Scapular Kinematics, Muscle Activity, and Shoulder Coordination

CHARLES A. THIGPEN: Effects Of Forward Head And Rounded Shoulder Posture On Scapular Kinematics, Muscle Activity, And Shoulder Coordination (Under the direction of Dr. Darin A. Padua) Forward head and rounded shoulder posture (FHRSP) has been identified as a potential risk factor for the development of shoulder pain. The mechanism through which forward head and rounded shoulder can facilitate shoulder injury is not well understood. Altered scapular kinematics, muscle activity, and shoulder joint coordination due to FHRSP may lead to the development of shoulder pain. However, there is little evidence to support the influence of FHRSP on scapular kinematics, muscle activity, and shoulder joint coordination. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to compare scapular kinematics, muscle activity, and shoulder joint coordination in individuals with and without FHRSP. Eighty volunteers without shoulder pain were classified as having FHRSP or ideal posture. An electromagnetic tracking system together with hard-wired surface electromyography was used to collect three-dimensional scapular kinematics concurrently with muscle activity of the upper and lower trapezius as well as the serratus anterior during