Winged Scapula review A winged scapula involves disruption of the spinal accessory nerve or the long thoracic nerve .
Winged Scapula review A winged scapula involves disruption of the spinal accessory nerve or the long thoracic nerve . The spinal accessory nerve, also known as cranial nerve 11, provides nerve innervation to the trapezius muscle and the sternocleidomastoid (SCM). The trapezius aids in lateral scapula rotation and assists the glenoid in motion during abduction.
Most common causes of injury to the nerve include trauma, nerve compression, or nerve traction injury. Medial scapula winging Injury to the long thoracic nerve, which originates from C5-7, will also lead to scapular winging. The long thoracic nerve innervates the serratus anterior, which is a muscle that primarily acts to stabilize the scapula during abduction.
Similar mechanisms of injury can affect the long thoracic nerve including nerve traction, nerve compression, and infection. The long thoracic nerve is at especially high risk of compression/traction injury due to its superficial route at the lateral chest wall. Long thoracic nerve innervation of the serratus anterior Patients with neuropraxia to the accessory or long thoracic nerve typically complain of shoulder heaviness.
They may also complain of difficulty playing overhead sports and pain around the scapula. In patients with spinal accessory nerve dysfunction due to trapezius muscle dysfunction, patients will strain their levator scapula and rhomboids to compensate, causing pain and muscle spasm. On physical exam, those who have experienced chronic denervation may have a winged scapula present.
There may also be limitations in the shoulder range of motion primarily with abduction. Providers will also need to evaluate for trapezius atrophy and a depressed shoulder girdle. A patient who has difficulty shrugging their shoulders is thought to have an accessory nerve injury verse difficulty with shoulder flexion, which is more suggestive of long thoracic nerve injury.
If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to winged scapula review, it is important to see a sports medicine physician. Early evaluation and treatment typically lead to better outcomes. Do not ignore pain or symptoms that are limiting your activity.
*This article is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.*
Connect with a doctor, physical therapist, or imaging center near you.
Find a Provider Near You โ