Warner et al. adapted Moiré topographic analysis — an optical contour-mapping technique borrowed from scoliosis screening — to objectively assess scapulothoracic motion in 51 subjects across three groups: asymptomatic controls, patients with anteroinferior glenohumeral instability, and patients with impingement syndrome. The study asks whether axioscapular muscle dysfunction can be detected objectively and how its prevalence differs across these populations.
When evaluating a patient with shoulder impingement or instability, don't stop at the glenohumeral joint — assess scapular mechanics dynamically, because static inspection will miss dysfunction in the majority of cases.
Targeted serratus anterior and trapezius strengthening should be a core component of rehabilitation for both conditions, not an afterthought.
Warner et al. adapted Moiré topographic analysis — an optical contour-mapping technique borrowed from scoliosis screening — to objectively assess scapulothoracic motion in 51 subjects across three groups: asymptomatic controls, patients with anteroinferior glenohumeral instability, and patients with impingement syndrome. The study asks whether axioscapular muscle dysfunction can be detected objectively and how its prevalence differs across these populations.
When evaluating a patient with shoulder impingement or instability, don't stop at the glenohumeral joint — assess scapular mechanics dynamically, because static inspection will miss dysfunction in the majority of cases.
Targeted serratus anterior and trapezius strengthening should be a core component of rehabilitation for both conditions, not an afterthought.