Scapular Movement
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The scapula moves through elevation/depression, adduction (retraction)/abduction (protraction), and upward/downward rotation.
Detail
The scapula has three pairs of movements: elevation and depression; adduction (retraction) and abduction (protraction); and upward rotation and downward rotation. Scapular adduction is used in pectoral and latissimus dorsi training to increase the force angle (2-joint muscle effect). A source note states the scapulas move about half as much as the shoulder. The scapular movement diagram is attributed to Harter (1991).
Key facts
- Three scapular movement pairs: elevation/depression; adduction (retraction)/abduction (protraction); upward/downward rotation.
- Scapular adduction increases force angle in chest and lat exercises.
- Source note: scapulas move about half as much as the shoulder.
Connections
- Elevation — scapular elevation.
- Depression — scapular depression.
- Trapezius — moves the scapula in all three pairs.
- Shoulder / Arm Range of Motion — distinct from glenohumeral motion.
Sources
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