10/05/2025
Essential Scapular Rotators: Key to Shoulder Health
The scapula (shoulder blade) must rotate properly for all arm movements. Imbalances between the muscle groups below are common causes of pain and poor posture.
Upward Rotators (Lift Arm Overhead)
These muscles work together to pivot the shoulder blade up, crucial for overhead reaching and preventing shoulder impingement.
Upper & Lower Trapezius (a & c): Act as a force couple to rotate the scapula.
Serratus Anterior (b): The primary muscle for pushing and reaching. Weakness can cause scapular winging.
Downward Rotators (Stabilize & Lower Arm)
These muscles bring the scapula back down and are vital for resting position and stability.
Rhomboids (d): Pull the shoulder blades back (retraction) and rotate them down, essential for good posture.
Pectoralis Minor (e): When tight, it pulls the shoulder forward and down, contributing to rounded shoulders.
Takeaway: To maintain a healthy shoulder, focus on strengthening the upward rotators (Traps and Serratus Anterior) and stretching tight downward rotators (especially the Pec Minor).