Three-dimensional scapular motion during arm elevation is altered in women with fibromyalgia

Author(s)

Avila, Mariana Arias ^[1] ; Camargo, Paula Rezende ^[1] ; Ribeiro, Ivana Leao ^[1] ; Zamuner, Antonio Roberto ^[1] ; Salvini, Tania Fatima ^[1]

Affiliation

^[1] Univ Fed Sao Carlos, Dept Phys Therapy, BR-13565905 Sao Carlos, SP - Brazil

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: CLINICAL BIOMECHANICS; v. 29, n. 7, p. 815-821, AUG 2014.
• Web of Science Citations: 5

Abstract

Background: The core feature of fibromyalgia is pain, which may play a role in various mechanisms that might lead to alterations in shoulder kinematics. Alterations in muscle activity and presence of tender points in the shoulder girdle have already been described in this population; however there is lack of evidence on three-dimensional scapular motion in women with fibromyalgia. Methods: Forty women with fibromyalgia and 25 healthy women (control group) matched in terms of age, weight and height, took part in this study. Three-dimensional scapular kinematics of the dominant arm were collected during elevation and lowering of the arm in the sagittal and scapular planes. Pain was evaluated by the Visual Analogue Scale and the Numerical Pain Rating Scale. Group comparisons were performed with one-way ANOVA for pain and two-way ANOVA for the kinematic variables (scapular internal/external rotation, upward/downward rotation and anterior/posterior tilt), with group and humeral elevation angle as categorical factors. Significance level was set at P < 0.05. Findings: Fibromyalgia women presented higher pain scores (P < 0.001) than the control group. Fibromyalgia women also presented greater scapular upward rotation (P < 0.001, both planes) and greater scapular posterior tilt (P < 0.001, both planes) than the control group. Interpretation: Women with fibromyalgia present greater scapular upward rotation and posterior tilt in the resting position and during arm elevation and lowering of the arm in sagittal and scapular planes. These alterations may be a compensatory mechanism to reduce pain during arm movement. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 11/22122-5 - Study of the biomechanical, sensorial, cardiorespiratory and quality of life adaptations associated to physical therapy intervention in the fibromyalgic syndrome
• Grantee: Tania de Fatima Salvini
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants