Scapular winging is when the shoulder blade sticks out abnormally, usually due to weak muscles or nerve damage.

It is usually caused by injury to the long thoracic nerve, which affects the serratus anterior muscle. Other causes include trauma, muscular dystrophies, or surgical problems.

Signs include a shoulder blade that sticks out, pain, limited arm movement, and trouble reaching overhead.

Symptoms are shoulder blade protrusion, pain in the shoulder, reduced range of motion, and weakness in the arm.

Yes, it can happen on one side (unilateral) or both sides (bilateral), but one-sided cases are more common.

The long thoracic nerve controls the serratus anterior muscle, which keeps the scapula close to the rib cage. Damage to this nerve can cause scapular winging.

Risk factors include surgical trauma, repetitive overhead actions, blunt force injuries, and some neuromuscular disorders.

It is usually diagnosed through a physical exam, medical history, and possibly imaging or nerve tests to confirm nerve issues.

X-rays, MRI, and EMG (electromyography) can evaluate muscle and nerve function.

It can be reversible, based on the cause and prompt treatment. Rehabilitation and sometimes surgery can help.

Treatments include physical therapy for muscle strengthening, pain relief, and sometimes electrical stimulation.

Surgery may be looked at if conservative treatments do not work or if there is significant nerve damage.

Physical therapy can work well, especially if it focuses on strengthening muscles and fixing movement patterns.

While prevention may not always be possible, reducing risks like overexertion and improving posture can help.

Recovery varies widely based on the cause and severity and can take from weeks to months.

Yes, poor posture can create muscle imbalances that may worsen or cause scapular winging over time.

Exercises usually target strengthening the serratus anterior and shoulder stabilizers, like wall slides and resistance band work.

Yes, it can result in shoulder pain due to changes in movement and muscle strain.

It can be reversible if the nerve is not badly damaged and with the correct treatment and rehab.

The serratus anterior is a muscle that keeps the shoulder blade close to the rib cage, and if it is weak, it can lead to winging.

Yes, it can greatly affect shoulder activities like swimming, tennis, and weightlifting.

A healthcare expert can tell scapular winging apart via a physical exam and tests for muscle function and scapular alignment.

Occupational therapy can assist by enhancing arm function and modifying tasks to alleviate symptoms.

In mild cases or those from temporary nerve irritation, it may go away on its own with rest and simple exercises.

Scapular braces can help improve posture and limit protrusion temporarily but should not replace strengthening workouts.

EMG can evaluate the muscle's electrical activity and help identify if nerve damage is causing winging.

Surgical procedures, especially on the chest or shoulder, can sometimes harm nerves, leading to scapular winging.

It can occur at any age but may be more apparent in athletes or those with repetitive shoulder use.

It can make tasks needing arm lifting, elevation, or prolonged shoulder use more difficult, impacting work and leisure.

While not a direct cause, obesity may play a role due to changed movement patterns and muscle imbalances.

The outlook varies based on the root cause, severity, and treatment response. Many see improvements with the right therapy.

It can cause compensatory motions that might lead to neck pain, shoulder impingement, and back issues.

It’s a clinical test to assess the function of the serratus anterior by observing winging when a patient pushes against a wall.

Rarely; significant winging may alter chest mechanics and affect breathing, but this scenario is uncommon.

Indirectly, stress can cause tension and poor posture that might upset muscle balance, though it is not a direct cause.

Sports with repetitive overhead movements, like swimming, volleyball, and baseball, can heighten the risk.

Keep shoulders healthy with regular exercises for strength and flexibility, good posture, and avoiding overuse.

X-rays might not directly show winging but can exclude other bone issues.

Avoiding aggravating movements, enhancing posture, and starting a structured exercise program can help.

More research is needed, but acupuncture may help relieve symptoms for some as an added treatment.

True winging happens due to muscle or nerve issues, while pseudowinging is linked to bone problems like scoliosis.

Some genetic neuromuscular disorders can cause scapular winging, but it is not inherited.

Aging may weaken muscles and decrease flexibility, possibly making existing winging worse.

No specific supplements target winging directly, but nutrients like B vitamins and omega-3s support nerve and muscle health.

Chiropractors can help with posture and alignment, but primary treatment should focus on strengthening and targeted therapy.

Good posture is important as it helps keep muscle balance and lessen strain on the shoulder structure.

Good ergonomics at work or home can reduce strain and help recovery by encouraging proper body alignment.

Ultrasound might help relieve pain and inflammation but should be part of a more comprehensive treatment approach.

If you have ongoing shoulder pain, noticeable winging, or trouble moving your shoulder, consult a specialist for assessment and care.