Corrective Exercise Toolkit

Scapular Dyskinesis

Scapular dyskinesis refers to altered scapular motion or positioning during arm movement. It is often associated with shoulder pain, impingement, and reduced overhead performance.

Dynamic Patterns - Scapular Girdle

Biomechanical Mechanism

Imbalance between scapular stabilizers (serratus anterior, lower trapezius) and overactive upper trapezius or pectoralis minor. Poor thoracic mobility can further reduce upward rotation and posterior tilt.

Clinical Rationale

Scapular control is essential for shoulder mechanics. Dysfunction increases impingement risk and reduces force transfer.

Practical Solution

Improve thoracic mobility and scapular stabilization before heavy overhead work. Reinforce upward rotation and posterior tilt patterns.

Common Compensations

Progression

  1. 1Level 1: Low-load activation
  2. 2Level 2: Isometrics and controlled ROM
  3. 3Level 3: Loaded retraction/protraction
  4. 4Level 4: Overhead integration

Regression

  • Reduce load
  • Use supported positions
  • Focus on slow tempo

Red Flags

Differential Diagnosis

Rotator cuff tendinopathyImpingement syndromeCervical involvement
Related Assessments
scapular dyskinesis assessmentscapular assistance assessmentlateral scapular slide assessment
Related Exercises
wall elbow walk bandy raise swiss ballserratus push upscapular squeezeytw seriesface pullwall slideexternal rotation bandthoracic extension foam rollerbear positionposterior shoulder ballplank roll

Evidence

Level: strong

Scapular stabilization programs improve pain and function in subacromial pain/impingement, supporting targeted scapular training.

Effect of scapular stabilization exercises on subacromial pain (impingement) syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

systematic review/meta-analysis View source

Scapular stabilization exercise on pain and functional recovery in people with shoulder impingement syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

systematic review/meta-analysis View source

Effect of scapular stabilization exercise program in patients with subacromial impingement syndrome: a systematic review.

systematic review View source

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