Scapulohumeral Rhythm

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Scapulohumeral rhythm is essential for full range of motion at the shoulder joint. Full range of motion of the shoulder, in flexion, is 180°. This motion is divided between two joints, the glenohumeral joint which makes up 120° and the scapulothoracic joint making up the remaining 60° (see picture to the right). For full range of motion, the humeral head must rotate laterally or spin in order for maximum contact with each other. The scapulohumeral rhythm improves congruency between these two joints, if there is injury at one of these joints, movement becomes compromised. The subacromial space, which is comprised of the humeral head, coracoacromial arch, supraspinatus tendon, long head of the biceps tendon, subacromial bursa and the joint capsule, is maintained by the scapulohumeral rhythm, if there is a tear or impingement in this space, range of motion will be affected, the client could have decreased range of motion and pain.