What is Sick Scapula Syndrome?

Sick Scapula Syndrome, also known as Scapular Dyskinesis, is the abnormal functionality/flexibility of the scapula (shoulder bone) inside the shoulder joint. The shoulder joint is somewhat like a ball-and-socket joint and comprises three bones: the humerus (upper arm bone), the scapula (shoulder bone), and the clavicle (collarbone). The highest point of the humerus shapes the ball inside glenoid of the scapula. This arrangement of muscles and ligaments including the rotator cuff holds the ball-and-socket up, the scapula goes about as an anchor site for different muscles around the shoulder. The shoulder bone likewise connects to the clavicle to make the acromioclavicular (AC) joint.

The most common symptoms are pain and difficulty moving the shoulder or arm. Post the onset of WFH (work at home) culture and lockdown due to ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, there has been a 20-25 percent increase in cases of Sick Scapula Syndrome in young people aged 30-45 years. Usually, athletes have a higher prevalence of Scapular Dyskinesis of about 61 percent as compared to non-athletes. However, the current work at home culture (WFH) with poor sitting posture or continued sitting for hours without break have led to such cases among common people.