An electromyographical analysis of the scapular stabilizing synergists during a push-up progression

Current literature recommends incorporating push-up progressions into upper extremity rehabilitation for advanced training of the scapular stabilizers. No documentation exists to demonstrate changes in the level of muscle activation when push-up progressions are performed. The purpose of this study...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:The journal of orthopaedic and sports physical therapy 1998-09, Vol.28 (3), p.146-157
Main Authors: Lear, L J, Gross, M T
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Adolescent
Adult
Athletic Injuries - rehabilitation
Electromyography
Exercise Therapy
Female
Humans
Male
Muscle, Skeletal - physiology
Physical Therapy Modalities
Scapula - injuries
Weight-Bearing
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Summary:Current literature recommends incorporating push-up progressions into upper extremity rehabilitation for advanced training of the scapular stabilizers. No documentation exists to demonstrate changes in the level of muscle activation when push-up progressions are performed. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of difficulty level for push-ups on electrical activity of the scapular stabilizing synergists. Sixteen subjects performed five repetitions for each of the three conditions in a push-up progression. Electromyographic data collected on the serratus anterior, upper trapezius, and lower trapezius revealed a statistically significant interaction effect between the serratus anterior and upper trapezius and push-up condition when the feet were elevated. No significant interaction was found between push-up condition and the lower trapezius. This study supports the clinical use of push-up progressions to facilitate activation of the serratus anterior and the upper trapezius during upper extremity rehabilitation.
ISSN:0190-6011
1938-1344
DOI:10.2519/jospt.1998.28.3.146