Previous studies investigating the role of the scapula in
shoulder disease have focused on scapular muscle activation
during shoulder rehabilitation exercises; many have
evaluated activation by electromyography (EMG).
However, scapular kinematics during such exercises are
not well known. Oyama et al investigated scapular kinematics
and muscle activity during 6 scapular retraction
exercises. They reported that scapular retraction with
shoulder ER at 90 abduction and with shoulder ER at 45
abduction increased in scapular ER, upward rotation, and
posterior tilt. By knowing the scapular kinematics during
exercises from these biomechanical studies, clinicians can
obtain valuable information needed for selecting proper
exercises for patients with shoulder disease