Scapula

The scapula, commonly known as the shoulder blade, is a large, flat, triangular bone located on the dorsal (back) aspect of the shoulder. It connects the humerus (upper arm bone) and the clavicle (collarbone). It's a critical component of the pectoral girdle, enabling a wide range of arm movements. Its structure includes features like the glenoid cavity, which articulates with the humerus to form the shoulder joint, and the acromion and coracoid process, serving as attachment points for muscles and ligaments. The scapula’s mobility allows for significant arm elevation and rotation.

Scapula meaning with examples

• During the examination, the doctor palpated the patient’s scapula to assess for any fractures after the fall, feeling for irregularities. The X-ray confirmed a hairline fracture. Proper immobilization of the scapula was crucial for healing. The physiotherapist designed exercises to improve scapular stability and retraction for rehabilitation. Focusing on the muscles around the scapula helped reduce shoulder pain.
• The athlete’s powerful throws relied on the coordinated movement of their scapula. Warming up includes scapular protraction and retraction exercises, which help stabilize the shoulder. Shoulder dislocations often involve damage to the ligaments supporting the scapula. Strengthening the muscles surrounding the scapula helps improve sports performance and prevent injuries. The trainer focused on scapular stabilization exercises for efficient arm movements.
• Surgical procedures on the shoulder frequently require careful manipulation of the scapula to access the joint. The surgeon precisely dissected around the scapula to reach the joint, ensuring not to disturb the surrounding structures. Post-surgery, the patient undertook physiotherapy to regain full scapular motion. The physiotherapist explained the importance of scapular control for shoulder function. Rehabilitation focused on restoring the normal positioning of the scapula.
• A skilled massage therapist used specific techniques to release tension in the muscles that attach to the scapula. They massaged around the scapula to improve blood flow and relax the muscles, like the rhomboids and trapezius. The therapist assessed the patient’s scapular movement to identify areas of tightness. The patient found relief from the upper back pain caused by the scapula’s muscle imbalances. The deep tissue massage released the knots around the scapula.
• The anatomy lesson involved a detailed study of the scapula's features, like the spine, the glenoid cavity, and the various processes. Students studied the scapula to identify the attachment points for the muscles. Visual aids and models helped explain the scapula’s relation to the humerus and clavicle. Dissection provided a hands-on understanding of the scapula's structure and function. Understanding scapula anatomy is essential for comprehending shoulder biomechanics.