Scapular Dyskinesia Test

The Scapular Dyskinesia Test is a fundamental clinical examination tool that helps healthcare professionals assess abnormal scapular movement patterns during upper extremity motion. This standardized assessment procedure is crucial for identifying movement impairments that may contribute to various shoulder pathologies and upper quarter dysfunction.

Scapular dyskinesia represents altered scapular positioning and movement patterns that can significantly impact shoulder function. Understanding and properly executing this test is essential for healthcare providers, as abnormal scapular mechanics have been associated with numerous shoulder conditions, including impingement syndrome, rotator cuff pathology, and adhesive capsulitis.

See Also: Scapular Dyskinesis

How to perform the Scapular Dyskinesia Test?

The examination begins with proper patient positioning. The patient stands with their back exposed to allow clear visualization of both scapulae. The examiner positions themselves behind the patient to observe scapular movement throughout the assessment. Weight selection is determined based on the patient’s body weight: patients weighing less than 68 kg (150 lb) use 1.4 kg (3 lb) weights, while those weighing more than 68 kg (150 lb) use 2.3 kg (5 lb) weights.

The assessment consists of two primary movement patterns. First, the patient performs bilateral arm abduction with thumbs pointing upward. This movement should be executed to full elevation following a controlled three-second count, both during the lifting and lowering phases. The patient repeats this movement pattern three times. Following the abduction sequence, the patient performs forward flexion movements following the same timing parameters.

What does a positive Scapular Dyskinesia Test mean?

During the Scapular Dyskinesia Test examination, clinicians should focus on identifying any abnormal scapular movements or positioning. Particular attention should be paid during the eccentric phase (lowering) of the movement, as dyskinetic patterns are often more pronounced during this phase. Common abnormalities may include winging, excessive elevation or depression, or asymmetrical movement patterns between the two scapulae.

Positive Scapular Dyskinesia Test may indicate underlying neuromuscular control deficits, muscle imbalances, or compensatory movement patterns. These observations should be considered within the context of the patient’s complete clinical presentation, including symptoms, functional limitations, and other examination findings. The test results can guide treatment planning and help establish appropriate rehabilitation strategies.

References & More

1. Kibler WB, et al. Clinical implications of scapular dyskinesis in shoulder injury: the 2013 consensus statement from the ‘Scapular Summit’. Br J Sports Med. 2013;47(14):877-885. https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/47/14/877
2. McClure P, et al. A clinical method for identifying scapular dyskinesis, part 1: reliability. J Athl Train. 2009;44(2):160-164. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2657021/
3. Huang TS, et al. Comprehensive classification test of scapular dyskinesis: A reliability study. Man Ther. 2015;20(3):427-432. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1356689X14001829