Describe the relationship between scapular mobility and shoulder ROM.

Describe the relationship between scapular mobility and shoulder ROM.

• A. Poor scapular mobility or control can limit shoulder ROM; mobility plus strength/stability of the scapula is essential for full shoulder function.
• B. Scapular mobility is unrelated to shoulder ROM.
• C. Scapular mobility reduces ROM.
• D. Only glenohumeral joint matters for shoulder ROM.

Answer: (A)

The ability of the shoulder to reach its full range depends on how well the scapula can move and be controlled, because the shoulder works as a coordinated system called scapulohumeral rhythm. As the arm lifts, the scapula must upwardly rotate, tilt, and stabilize to provide a stable base for the humerus and to keep the glenoid in the right position. If the scapula is stiff or its stabilizing muscles are weak, that coordinated movement is impaired, so the humerus can’t travel through its full arc without compensations or pain. In short, poor scapular mobility or control can limit shoulder ROM, and having both mobility and stable control of the scapula is essential for full shoulder function. The glenohumeral joint matters, but it isn’t the only part of the story—the scapula’s motion and control are integral to achieving full, pain-free ROM.

The ability of the shoulder to reach its full range depends on how well the scapula can move and be controlled, because the shoulder works as a coordinated system called scapulohumeral rhythm. As the arm lifts, the scapula must upwardly rotate, tilt, and stabilize to provide a stable base for the humerus and to keep the glenoid in the right position. If the scapula is stiff or its stabilizing muscles are weak, that coordinated movement is impaired, so the humerus can’t travel through its full arc without compensations or pain. In short, poor scapular mobility or control can limit shoulder ROM, and having both mobility and stable control of the scapula is essential for full shoulder function. The glenohumeral joint matters, but it isn’t the only part of the story—the scapula’s motion and control are integral to achieving full, pain-free ROM.