Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.69589/hsv.41.1.1
Winged scapula due to nerve injury: A case series on kinesiology-based rehabilitation
Nina Špiljak-Vučinović
; Institute of Emergency Medicine of Krapina-Zagorje County, Krapina, Croatia
Silvija Mahnik
; Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
Mirta Zekan Vučetić
; Department of Radiology, University Hospital Sveti Duh, Zagreb, Croatia
Ana Aljinović
; Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
Abstract
Winged scapula (scapula alata – lat.) a specific manifestation of scapular dyskinesis typically arises from neuromuscular impairments that affect periscapular muscle stabilization. The most common causes are injuries to the long thoracic nerve or spinal accessory nerve, resulting in characteristic medial or lateral winging due to paralysis of the serratus anterior or trapezius muscles, respectively. This case series presents four patients with winged scapula of varying etiology: one due to isolated long thoracic nerve injury, two following spinal accessory nerve damage after thyroid cancer surgery, and one idiopathic case. Diagnostic assessment included physical examination, electromyography, nerve conduction studies, and magnetic resonance imaging. All patients underwent individualized rehabilitation programs that focused on muscle strengthening, scapular stabilization, and biofeedback techniques. Rehabilitation led to pain reduction and functional improvement in all cases, although some degree of winged scapula persisted in the patients with irreversible nerve injury. These findings highlight the importance of early recognition and a multidisciplinary, kinesiology-based approach to optimize outcomes in patients with scapular dyskinesis.
Keywords
Scapular dyskinesis, Shoulder biomechanics, Biofeedback therapy, Kinesiological rehabilitation
Hrčak ID:
348755
URI
Publication date:
30.6.2026.
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