Comparison of the Scapulohumeral Rhythm of Scapular Tilt between the Coronal, Sagittal and Scapular Planes during Humeral Elevation

Abstract

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of the plane of arm elevation on the scapulohumeral rhythm of scapular tilt in healthy persons. [Participants and Methods] An optical motion tracking system and acromion marker cluster were used to assess the scapulohumeral rhythm of scapular tilt in the coronal, sagittal and scapular planes during elevation of the arm of fourteen healthy male college students. [Results] The scapulohumeral rhythm of scapular tilt was 1.9 ± 0.4:1 for abduction, 1.8 ± 0.5:1 for scaption, and 1.8 ± 0.4:1 for flexion. During the arm elevation phase, the plane of arm elevation didn’t affect the scapulohumeral rhythm of scapular tilt. [Conclusion] Regardless of the plane of arm elevation, it is possible to use the 2:1 ratio of scapulohumeral rhythm of scapular tilt as a clinical indicator.