BACKGROUND Clinically evaluating the scapulothoracic joint is challenging. To identify scapular dyskinesis, clinicians typically observe scapular motion and congruence during self-directed upper extremity movements. However, it is unclear whether this method is reliable. QUESTIONS/PURPOSES We therefore determined the interrater reliability of a scapular classification system in the examinatio...

We report a significant complication of acupuncture in a 50 year old woman who developed a pneumothorax shortly after receiving acupuncture needling to her scapulothoracic region in a lateral oblique direction. As acupuncture is increasingly being used in pain management, physicians need to be aware of its potential adverse effects. We discuss issues relating to appropriate counselling of patie...

Introduction Scapular fractures account for 3% to 5% of all fractures of the shoulder girdle and compose 0.4% to 1% of all fractures.The annual incidence of these injuries is estimated at 10 per 100,000 persons. The scapula plays an integral role in the association between the upper extremity and the axial skeleton. Scapular fractures have the potential to cause significant pain and to alter no...

INTRODUCTION The shoulder is probably one of the most complex joint mechanisms of the human body. The shoulder consists of four bony elements: Thorax, clavicle, scapula and humerus. The connection thorax-claviclescapula is a closed chain. Due to the closed chain, the rotational and translational degrees of freedom of the scapula and clavicle are constrained, meaning that not every orientation c...

The shoulder complex is prone to numerous pathologies and instabilities due to its large range of motion. The extent of injury is assessed through a series of observations and physical examinations. It is hypothesized that objective kinematic analysis of the shoulder could yield useful functional insights to aid clinical practice. Non-invasive motion analysis techniques to monitor shoulder func...

A 20-year-old man suffered the combined axillary and suprascapular nerve palsies associated with scapulothoracic dissociation by motorcycle accident. The dislocated shoulder girdle was reduced and stabilized with osteosynthesis of the fractured clavicle and reattachment of the trapezius avulsed from the scapular spine for removal of continuous traction force to these damaged nerves. Because of ...