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Snapping Scapula and Winging of the Scapula, Sports Medicine

Joseph Chorley, MD, FAAP, FACSM, CAQSM Reviewed 04/2019
 


BASICS

DESCRIPTION

Snapping scapula syndrome (SSS) is a disorder of the scapulothoracic articulation resulting in crepitation that may or may not be painful. It can be the result of anatomic impediment...

DIAGNOSIS

HISTORY

  • SSS:

    • Mechanical sensation, with or without pain, usually along the medial scapular border (superior > inferior > middle)

    • Classic anterior impingement complaints (pain with overhea...

TREATMENT

GENERAL MEASURES

Emergency department (ED) treatment 5[C]: 
  • Acute injury may result in WS, but the symptoms of pain and nerve dysfunction may not present for a few weeks.

  • Avoiding painful activ...

REFERENCES

1
Martin RM, Fish DE. Scapular winging: anatomical review, diagnosis, and treatments. Curr Rev Musculoskelet Med.  2008;1(1):1–11.
2
Forthomme B, Crielaard JM, Croisier JL. Scapular posit...

CLINICAL PEARLS

  • Scapular dyskinesis should be considered in patients with shoulder pain. Whether it is a primary cause or a secondary problem, it is an important component of restoring shoulder functi...

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