Background: Lower trapezius muscle function is important for the prevention and treatment of shoulder injuries. However, scapular posterior tilt movement has been overlooked in lower trapezius strengthening exercise programs.
Objective: To examine the effects of prone arm lifting with scapular posterior tilt (PALSPT) on trapezius muscles.
Design: Crossover study
Methods: 17 healthy males were recruited for participation in this study. Participants performed backward rocking diagonal arm lifting (BRDAL) and PALSPT. To train participants in scapular posterior tilt movements for PALSPT, visual biofeedback of scapular movements was provided using a motion sensor. Electromyography (EMG) activities of the middle and lower trapezius were recorded using a surface EMG system. Differences in middle and lower trapezius muscle activity between BRDAL and PALSPT exercises were analyzed.
Results: Lower trapezius muscle activity was significantly greater during PALSPT than during BRDAL (p=.006). Although greater EMG activity was observed in the middle trapezius during PALSPT than during BRDAL, this difference was not significant (p=.055).
Conclusions: The results of the present study indicate that scapular posterior tilt movements must be considered in lower trapezius muscle strengthening programs.

INTRODUCTION
SUBJECTS AND METHODS
RESULTS
DISCUSSION
CONCLUSION
REFERENCES

• Minhyeok Kang(Department of Physical Therapy, International University of Korea) correspondence