Ongoing pain or problems in your shoulder may suggest the need to seek help for it. Notably, issues in the shoulder commonly stem from faulty actions in the muscles that support and move the shoulder blade. Left untreated, these problems tend to get worse, not better.
The scapula, or shoulder blade, plays a key role in strength, coordination, and movement of the arm. It also provides a connection between the arm and the spine by way of the thoracic (chest) wall.
When we lift our arm or reach behind our back the scapula must slide, rotate, and tilt in certain directions. By doing so, the scapula provides stability of our shoulder joint and enables us to increase shoulder movement.
Problems here may be due to a “sick scapula,” a term that refers to problems with the role of the shoulder blade. It may be allowing too much or too little movement. If there is weakness or poor coordination in the muscles that direct the scapula, bigger problems loom.
This condition typically occurs on one side but not always. When it occurs, there are oftentimes problems with scapular or arm pain. It can also play in to shoulder problems such as shoulder impingement, rotator cuff tendonitis, a rotator cuff tear, or a shoulder bursitis.
The good news is that a problem scapula is usually treatable. Proper evaluation and treatment of a shoulder condition will addresses the scapula. And proper scapular function is necessary when developing a well-rounded shoulder strengthening program. Addressing specific muscles is vital to providing the correct movement of the shoulder blades with the shoulder and arm complex.
Learning how to activate the scapular muscles and knowing how to control them is paramount to any successful shoulder program. Overuse and incorrect scapular and shoulder joint movement can lead to ongoing painful and bothersome shoulder conditions. In the end, if you let shoulder problems go too far, you may end up losing ground.
You are encouraged to seek the advice and help of Alpine’s physical therapists. They have expertise in treating conditions stemming from faulty shoulder blade function. To schedule an appointment, call our offices at 251-2323 or 541-2606.
For more information on shoulder conditions, view all 20 of our online shoulder Patient Guides by clicking here.
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