Shoulder dysfunction assessment: Self-report and impaired scapular movements

Abstract

Background and Purpose. Shoulder dysfunction is common in various patient populations. This investigation was performed to assess shoulder dysfunction with self-report and performance-based functional measures. Subjects. Fifty men (25 with shoulder dysfunction and 25 without shoulder dysfunction) participated in this study. Methods. Self-report functional disabilities were assessed with the Flexilevel Scale of Shoulder Function (FLEX-SF), and electromagnetic tracking sensors were used to monitor 3-dimensional scapular movements during 4 functional tasks. Results. Relative to the control group, the group with shoulder dysfunction showed significant alterations in scapular movements (averages of 6.9° less posterior tipping, 5.7° less upward rotation, and 2.3 cm more elevation). Scapular kinematics correlated significantly (r) with the Self-report FLEX-SF measure during functional tasks (posterior tipping=.454 to .712, upward rotation=.296 and .317, and elevation =-.310). Discussion and Conclusion. Functional disabilities were identified with self-report and performance-based functional measures. The inadequate scapular posterior tipping and scapular upward rotation as well as the excessive elevation may have implications in planning intervention strategies for people with shoulder dysfunction.