An Electromyographical Analysis of the Scapular Stabilizing Synergists During a Push-up Progression

Michael T. Gross, Leslie Jeanne Lear

Current literature recommends incorporating push-up progressions into upper extremity rehabilitation for advanced training of the scapular stabilizers. No documentation exists to demonstrate changes in the level of muscle activation when push-up progressions are performed. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of difficulty level for push-ups on electrical activity of the scapular stabilizing synergists. Sixteen subjects performed 5 repetitions for each of the 3 conditions in a push-up progression. Electromyographic data collected on the serratus anterior, upper trapezius, and lower trapezius revealed a statistically significant interaction effect between the serratus anterior and upper trapezius and push-up condition when the feet were elevated. No significant interaction was found between push-up condition and the lower trapezius. This study supports the clinical use of push-up progressions to facilitate activation of the serratus anterior and the upper trapezius during upper extremity rehabilitation.

J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 1998;28(3):146-157.

Key Words: push-up progression, scapular stabilizers, electromyography

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