Serratus anterior paralysis as an occupational injury in scaffolders: two case reports.

BACKGROUND Shoulder complaints in scaffolders are very common and may result in permanent disability. METHODS We present two case reports of patients who developed acute shoulder complaints. After lifting weights up to 50 kg both patients suffered an isolated lesion of the long thoracic nerve resulting in serratus anterior paralysis. RESULTS Physical signs are unilateral winging of the scapula and loss of strength in the arm. A combined effect of pressure and stretching of the nerve resulted in an occupational injury with a different prognosis of reversibility in both patients. CONCLUSION Shoulder pads in the overall and limiting the weight to carry may prevent future injuries.