Dysfunctional positioning of the shoulder girdle and its impact on the biomechanics of the upper limb

Anna Puchalska-Sarna, Michał Sarna, Victor Touma, Ewa Lenart–Domka, Jadwiga Trzeciak and Grzegorz Domino
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Anna Puchalska-Sarna: University of Rzeszów, Medical Colleg , Faculty of Health Sciences and Psychology, Institute of Physiotherapy, Poland
Michał Sarna: University of Rzeszów, Medical College, Faculty of Health Sciences and Psychology, Institute of Physiotherapy, Poland
Victor Touma: ORTO Private Orthopedic Clinic, Rzeszów, Poland
Ewa Lenart–Domka: University of Rzeszów, Medical College, Faculty of Medicine , Department of Pediatrics, Poland
Jadwiga Trzeciak: University of Rzeszów, Medical College, Faculty of Medicine , Department of Pediatrics, Poland
Grzegorz Domino: University of Rzeszów, Faculty of Physical Culture Sciences, Study of Physical Education and Recreation, Rzeszów, Poland

Technium BioChemMed: Journal of Multidisciplinary Research, Biology, Chemistry and Medicine ISSN 2734 - 7990, 2025, vol. 13, 196-211

Abstract: The shoulder girdle plays a crucial role in upper limb mobility and stability. Dysfunctional positioning of the shoulder, such as rounded shoulder posture (RSP) or forward head posture (FHP), alters the biomechanics of the shoulder complex and may lead to musculoskeletal disorders. The glenohumeral joint, characterized by a relatively small and shallow glenoid cavity, relies on surrounding muscles and ligaments for stability. Key muscles influencing shoulder kinematics include the deltoid, rotator cuff muscles (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, subscapularis), trapezius, serratus anterior, pectoralis minor, and latissimus dorsi. Muscle imbalances, weakness, or excessive tension can disrupt scapulothoracic and glenohumeral mechanics, resulting in compensatory movement patterns, reduced range of motion, pain, and increased risk of injuries such as subacromial impingement or shoulder dislocations. Postural abnormalities, prolonged sedentary behavior, and repetitive activities, such as smartphone use or athletic movements, exacerbate these dysfunctions. Effective assessment of shoulder position and muscle function, combined with targeted rehabilitation, is essential for restoring proper biomechanics, preventing injury, and improving functional outcomes. Understanding the interplay between shoulder posture, muscle activity, and joint mechanics provides a foundation for clinical interventions aimed at optimizing upper limb performance.

Date: 2025
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:tec:bioche:ojs:13204

DOI: 10.47577/biochemmed.v13i.13204

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