Major Muscles Causing Winged Scapula: Useful Information to Know!

Hello! Let’s talk about winged scapula today. The term “winged scapula” means the shoulder blade sticks out like a wing. This happens when certain muscles in the shoulder and back become weak or damaged. Let’s learn about the key muscles that cause winged scapula!

1. Serratus Anterior Muscle

The serratus anterior is one of the most important muscles for winged scapula.
•Role:
It keeps the shoulder blade close to the rib cage. It also helps the shoulder blade move smoothly when you lift or push your arm.
•Relation to Winged Scapula:
When this muscle is weak, the shoulder blade moves away from the rib cage. This makes the shoulder blade stick out. It often happens because of nerve damage (injury to the long thoracic nerve).

2. Trapezius Muscle

The trapezius is a large muscle in the upper back and neck. It is important for keeping the shoulder blade stable.
•Role:
It helps lift the shoulder blade, pull it toward the spine, and rotate it.
•Relation to Winged Scapula:
If this muscle is weak or if the spinal accessory nerve is damaged, the shoulder blade can droop or stick out.

3. Rhomboid Muscles

The rhomboids are muscles that connect the shoulder blade to the spine.
•Role:
They pull the shoulder blade toward the spine. They also help keep it steady during movement.
•Relation to Winged Scapula:
If the rhomboids are weak or if the dorsal scapular nerve is damaged, the shoulder blade can stick out to the side. Poor posture can make this worse.

4. Levator Scapulae Muscle

The levator scapulae connects the upper neck to the top of the scapula.
•Role:
It assists in elevating the scapula.
•Relation to Winged Scapula:
Over-tension or weakness in this muscle can disrupt scapular balance and contribute to winged scapula.

5. Pectoralis Minor Muscle

The pectoralis minor is a small muscle connecting the front of the chest to the coracoid process of the scapula.
•Role:
It aids in anterior scapular stability and thoracic movement.
•Relation to Winged Scapula:
Excessive tension in the pectoralis minor can restrict scapular movement, making the symptoms of winged scapula worse.

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