Electromyographic activity of periscapular muscles in symptomatic people: Does scapular dyskinesis have an impact on it?

• Published in: Isokinetics and exercise science 2024-01, Vol.32 (1), p.49-57
• Main Authors: de Holanda Santos, Laís Regina, Batista, Gabriel de Amorim, da Silva Oliveira, Felipe Augusto, Pitangui, Ana Carolina Rodarti, de Araújo, Rodrigo Cappato
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Isometric exercise; Muscle function; Muscle strength; Pain; Pain management; Shoulder
• ISSN: 0959-3020; 1878-5913
• DOI: 10.3233/IES-230040

BACKGROUND: Scapular dyskinesis (SD) is a modification of the positioning and movement of the scapula and is associated with shoulder pain. Exercises to strengthen the shoulder and scapular muscles have been proposed as a therapeutic strategy to reduce pain and improve function. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to investigate the electromyographic activity of the periscapular and trunk muscles in individuals with shoulder pain and SD in different multi-joint exercises. METHODS: Thirty-two subjects with subacromial pain, of both sexes, with the presence or absence of SD, participated in this study. Volunteers performed five repetitions in five exercises (Closed Row; Pronated Row; Push-up; Scapular Push-up; T-push-up). The activity of the upper trapezius, middle trapezius, lower trapezius, serratus anterior, external oblique, and rectus abdominis muscles was recorded using electromyography. RESULTS: Our results showed a decrease in the electromyographic activity of the serratus anterior and external oblique during the T-push-up exercise in individuals with shoulder pain and SD. No differences were observed between groups for the trapezius and the rectus abdominis. CONCLUSIONS: Rehabilitation programs may initially prioritize rowing and push-up exercises to strengthen periscapular muscles. More complex exercises with greater mechanical demand on the kinetic chain, such as the T-push-up, may have to be implemented in later phases.