Effect of Trunk Flexion on Muscle Activity, Motion of Scapular and Scapulohumeral Rhythm

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of trunk posture on muscle activity and motion of scapular and scapulohumeral rhythm. Thirty-one healthy subjects performed right-arm abduction and adduction along the frontal plane while standing in both upright and flexed posture of trunk. Scapular upward rotation, anterior tilting and internal rotation ware recorded using a motion analysis system and muscle activity of upper trapezius, lower trapezius and serratus anterior ware recorded using surface electromyography during abduction and adduction in both trunk postures. then, scapulohumeral rhythm was calculated. Scapulohumeral rhythm and scapular posterior tilting in flexed posture was significantly decreased than in upright posture. Also, muscle activity of lower trapezius in flexed posture was significantly increased and serratus anterior was significantly decreased than in general posture. The result of this study revealed that flexed posture of trunk altered the muscle activity and kinematic of scapular. Measurement of trunk posture should be included the evaluation of dysfunction and disorder of shoulder girdle since rehabilitation of trunk posture is important to restore of upper limbs function.