AAPM&R’s Spotlight Series: The Kinetic Chain: The Overhead Athlete-Session Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

This video summary discusses the importance of scapular dysfunction in overhead athletes and its impact on shoulder function. The speaker explains that shoulder function relies on optimal function of both dynamic and static stabilizers, including the scapula. They emphasize that scapular dysfunction needs to be understood within the context of the kinetic chain to address it effectively. The role of the scapula in the kinetic chain is discussed, including its activation prior to rotator cuff activity and its function as the origin of intrinsic shoulder muscles. The importance of scapular stabilizing muscles such as the upper trapezius, lower trapezius, and serratus anterior is also highlighted. The speaker stresses the need to assess scapular position and motion at rest and during activity, as well as the function of static and dynamic stabilizers in patients with scapular dysfunction. Rehabilitation principles such as optimizing scapular mobility, improving shoulder range of motion, and restoring scapular muscle strength are discussed. The speaker also mentions the importance of assessing neuromuscular firing deficits, core stability, and lower extremity stability. Functional testing is recommended to assess readiness for a return to play. The video concludes by stating that scapular dysfunction is common in shoulder injuries, and early assessment and intervention can lead to better outcomes and prevent re-injury.

Keywords

Scapular dysfunction

Overhead athletes

Shoulder function

Dynamic stabilizers

Static stabilizers

Kinetic chain

Scapula activation

Intrinsic shoulder muscles

Scapular stabilizing muscles

Scapular position

Scapular motion

Rehabilitation principles

Scapular mobility

Shoulder range of motion

Neuromuscular firing deficits