Axioscapular and neck extensor muscle behavior during isometric shoulder exertions in patients with nonspecific neck pain with and without a scapular downward rotation posture
sEMG on UT/LT/SA/NE in 90 participants (30 control, 30 neck pain with SDR, 30 without) during isometric shoulder tasks at 20/50/100% MVC. SDR group revealed increased UT activity and greater UT/LT, UT/SA ratios at low force levels. Both neck pain groups showed higher NE activity. Together, these findings suggest impaired axioscapular and neck motor control.
CONCLUSION
Supports the fact that SDR-related muscle imbalance (increased UT activity/ ratios) reflects a motor control issue, not a strength deficit (appears only at low force, not 100% MVC). Training suggestion: target motor control/ coordination of axioscapular muscles at low-to-moderate loads. For treatment and evaluation, both neck and axioscapular muscles should be involved.
CONCLUSION
Supports the fact that SDR-related muscle imbalance (increased UT activity/ ratios) reflects a motor control issue, not a strength deficit (appears only at low force, not 100% MVC). Training suggestion: target motor control/ coordination of axioscapular muscles at low-to-moderate loads. For treatment and evaluation, both neck and axioscapular muscles should be involved.