STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional study, quasi-experimental design. OBJECTIVES: To compare the active cervical rotation range of motion (ROM) between healthy young subjects with a neutral vertical scapular alignment and subjects with scapular depression, and to examine the influence of modifying the vertical position of the scapulae on active cervical rotation ROM. BACKGROUND: Altered scapular alignment is proposed to be related to neck dysfunction and pain. Changes in the alignment of either the scapulae or the cervical spine can potentially influence the biomechanics of the other by altering the tension at the cervicoscapular muscles. METHODS AND MEASURES: Fifty-eight college age students with neutral vertical scapular alignment (NS group, n=29) or depressed scapular alignment (DS group, n=29) volunteered to participate in the study. Cervical rotation ROM was assessed using the CROM device in 2 conditions: condition 1, resting scapular position; condition 2, neutral vertical scapular position with forearms supported. RESULTS: The ANOVA revealed no significant group-by-condition interaction (F=0.19, df=1, P=.66). There was a significant main effect of condition (F=47.16, df=1, P<.001).  For both groups, there was an increase in cervical rotation ROM in condition 2 when compared to condition 1 (mean ± SD, 10.2º ± 3.1º, 95% CI= 4.1º to 16.4º). There was no main effect of group (F=.41, df=1, P=.53). CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that in a young healthy population the vertical scapular alignment does not influence cervical rotation ROM. Supporting the upper limbs, however, results in a significant and similar increase in cervical rotation ROM for both groups. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Etiology, level 4.

J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2008; 38(11):668-673, Epub 22 August 2008. doi:10.2519/jospt.2008.2820

KEY WORDS: neck, scapula, support