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Winged Scapula


About this topic


The shoulder blade, or the scapula, is part of the shoulder joint. The shoulder blade has many muscles that attach to it. These muscles help hold the arm close to the body. They also help the arm move. Normally, the shoulder blade lies flat against your back. A winged scapula happens when the edge of the shoulder blade that is closest to your spine sticks out. This is often a sign of another problem rather than an injury to the shoulder blade itself. ‚  

What are the causes?


  • Injury to the long thoracic nerve most often causes this problem. This causes muscle weakness and the shoulder blade sticks out. The nerve may be injured by:
    • Direct blow to the shoulder
    • Falling on the shoulder
    • Repetitive stretch injury from overhead throwing motions
    • Neck injury
    • Virus

What can make this more likely to happen?


  • Playing contact sports
  • Playing sports with overhead throwing motions like baseball, tennis, volleyball
  • Poor health condition

What are the main signs?


  • Edge of shoulder blade closest to the spine sticks out, especially when reaching forward or doing push-ups
  • Discomfort or pressure on the shoulder blade when sitting
  • May or may not have pain
  • Less ability to raise the arm
  • Shoulder weakness
  • Arms feel heavy or tired

How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?


The doctor will look at your shoulder blade and compare it to the other side. The doctor may have you move your arm or push up against a wall. The doctor will also test your arm and shoulder blade to see how strong the muscles are. The doctor may order tests to check the electrical activity in the muscle. ‚  

How does the doctor treat this health problem?


  • Rest if injury is from repeat motions
  • Sling or brace to keep the shoulder close to the body
  • Exercises for range of motion and strengthening
  • Physical therapy (PT) which may include electrical stimulation
  • Surgery is only done if the nerve is trapped or if other treatments have failed.

What drugs may be needed?


The doctor may order drugs to: ‚  
  • Help with pain and swelling

What problems could happen?


Long-lasting nerve damage ‚  

What can be done to prevent this health problem?


  • Stay active and work out to keep your muscles strong and flexible.
  • Warm up slowly and stretch before you exercise. Use good ways to train and good form for sports. Have an expert look at your technique.
  • Wear protection when playing sports.
  • Take breaks often when doing things that use repeat movements.
  • Follow pitch count guidelines if you are a baseball or softball player.

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer


This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚  

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