Scapulohumeral Rhythm

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The scapulohumeral rhythm allows full ROM and muscle length tension through the motion of shoulder elevation. Shoulder elevation is a synchronous movement between the glenohumeral joint and then scapulothoracic joint. This means that as the angle of the glenohumeral joint increases during abduction, the scapulothoracic joint moves as well in upward rotation.The scapulohumeral rhythm consists of a 2:1 ratio of glenohuneral joint movement to scapulothoracic movement that produces 180° of full ROM. When we have a client perform abduction/elevation of the upper extremity we observe the rhythm to ensure the total motion. We can observe weakness in the muscles that produce scapular upward rotation such as the trapezius or serratus anterior during the motion. If the scapula does not upwardly rotate, abduction of the humerus will not be complete.  Moreover, dysfunction in one of the joints can decrease ROM or cause impingement/pain.  This may be evident if there is an obvious change of position of the scapula related to the humerus. There are numerous causes for disruption in scapulohumeral rhythm. As therapists this is clinically relevant because we want to identify the disruption and find a solution for our clients to be able to use their UE independently for participation in activities of daily living.

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