Why Your Scapulars Stick Out (Winged Scapulars): The Thoracic Spine

Why Your Thoracic Spine Causes Scapular Winging:

Poor thoracic spine posture and movement can contribute to winged scapulae through the lens of Functional Patterns methodology and recent research findings.

Functional Patterns methodology emphasises the interconnectedness of the body and the importance of addressing biomechanical imbalances to promote optimal movement. The thoracic spine plays a crucial role in providing a stable foundation for shoulder movement and scapular positioning. When the thoracic spine lacks proper engagement and mobility, it can have a cascading effect on the surrounding structures, including the scapulae.

Recent research supports the idea that poor thoracic spine posture and function can indeed lead to winged scapulae. A study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy investigated the relationship between thoracic spine posture and scapular positioning. They found that individuals with a more rounded and forward-flexed thoracic spine were more likely to have winged scapulae. This is because the rounded thoracic spine limits the natural upward rotation of the scapula during shoulder movement, causing it to "wing out."

Functional Patterns methodology suggests that this connection between the thoracic spine and scapular positioning is due to the interconnected fascial lines and kinetic chains in the body. The thoracic spine's engagement and mobility influence the tension in surrounding muscles and fascia, which in turn affects the scapula's ability to glide smoothly along the rib cage.

Functional Patterns Brisbane Scapular Wing Correction Using Movement

Incorporating Functional Patterns exercises that focus on thoracic spine engagement, extension, and rotation can help address these imbalances. By improving thoracic mobility and alignment, individuals can create a more supportive environment for proper scapular movement. Additionally, these exercises can activate the muscles responsible for stabilising and guiding the scapula, reducing the likelihood of winging.

Poor thoracic spine posture and movement can lead to winged scapulae due to the interconnected nature of the body's biomechanics. Functional Patterns methodology highlights the importance of addressing these imbalances through targeted exercises that improve thoracic mobility and engagement. Recent research further supports the idea that correcting thoracic spine posture can positively impact scapular positioning, promoting better overall movement and reducing the risk of winging.

More Studies Showing The Importance Of Posture & Thoracic Spine Engagement For CoRRecting Scapular Winging

A study conducted by Kebaetse et al. (2019) looked at how the way we sit and hold our upper body, specifically our thoracic spine (the upper part of our back), can affect the movement of our shoulder blades and the strength of our shoulder muscles.

They had a group of people sit in two different ways: sitting up straight and sitting in a slouched position. They used special tools to measure how the shoulder blades moved when the participants raised their arms, both at their sides and out to the side. They also tested how strong the shoulder muscles were in these positions.

What they found was that when people slouched, their shoulder blades moved differently when they raised their arms. They also had less movement in their shoulders and their shoulder muscles weren't as strong compared to when they sat up straight.

This means that having a healthy and engaged upper back (thoracic spine) is really important for how our shoulder blades move and how strong our shoulder muscles are. When we slouch, it can affect the way our shoulders work and make our muscles weaker. So, it's a good reminder to sit up straight to keep our upper back in good shape and help our shoulders move and stay strong!

Functional Patterns Brisbane Scapular Winging Correction Using Movement

A further study by Mihata et al. (2012) aimed to understand how the positioning of the shoulder blade (scapula) during throwing motions affects the shoulder joint and potential injuries. The researchers used frozen cadaver shoulders to mimic the action of throwing, analysing the effects of different scapular orientations.

They found that when the shoulder blade was rotated inwards (internal rotation), it increased the pressure and impingement (pinching) in the back part of the shoulder joint. In contrast, when the shoulder blade was rotated upwards (upward rotation), it decreased the impingement area. Essentially, incorrect scapular positioning, particularly internal rotation, can lead to higher pressure on the shoulder joint and increase the risk of injuries.

This study highlights the importance of maintaining correct scapular positioning, especially during activities like throwing, to prevent shoulder injuries. Good posture and proper engagement of the thoracic spine are crucial to ensure that the shoulder blade is in the right position, reducing the risk of pressure and impingement on the shoulder joint during movements like throwing. This information underscores the significance of proper body mechanics and positioning in sports and daily activities to keep the shoulder joint healthy and prevent injuries.

(Kebaetse et al., 1999; Mihata et al., 2012)