How to treat winged scapula?

Q:
How to treat winged scapula？
A:
Winged scapula, sometimes we called it a scapular winging. It is a skeletal medical condition that affects the shoulder blades. The shoulder blades usually rest flat against the back of the chest wall. Scapular winging occurs when a shoulder blade sticks out.

Symptoms

Scapular winging often affects your ability to raise your arm above your shoulder. It may also give rise to other symptoms, including:

pain or discomfort in your neck, shoulders, and back
fatigue
a drooping shoulder

Cause

Scapular winging is almost always caused by damage to one of three nerves that control muscles in your arms, back, and neck:

the long thoracic nerve
the dorsal scapular nerve
the spinal accessory nerve

Treatment

Nonsurgical treatment

Scapular winging caused by damage to the serratus anterior nerve sometimes heal on their own within two years. Your doctor may also recommend light physical therapy or using a brace for several months early in your recovery.

Surgical treatment

The most common surgical treatments for scapular winging are nerve and muscle transfers.

Home exercises

Stretching at home may help you improve your strength and range of motion.

Keywords: winged scapula;shoulder;nerve

* The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.