Compensatory upper limb movements

Abstract

Patients with shoulder joint dysfunction may perform compensatory motion using the glenohumeral joint,scapula, or trunk to accomplish the intended movement. It is necessary to consider which treatment strategyto pursue, improvement of normal movement or acquisition of compensatory function, depending on theintended goal. In this paper, compensatory movement caused by functional impairment of the glenohumeraljoint and scapula are used as examples. In addition, electromyographic data are presented and details of thekind of compensatory movement occurring are explained.