Anterior Tipping (Scapula)

Anterior Tipping (Scapula): A joint action of the scapula (shoulder blade) where the superior portion of the scapula tilts forward, and the inferior angle moves backward. This is generally movement that occurs as the scapula follows the curvature over the top portion of the rib cage. This joint action causes the glenoid fossa (shoulder socket) to rotate anteriorly and may allow for more shoulder extension. This joint action is also correlated with the appearance of rounded or slumped shoulders in those exhibiting postural dysfunction .

• Opposing Joint Action: Scapular Posterior Tipping
• Plane of Motion: Sagittal
• Direction Bias: "Pivoting forward"
• Note: Joint actions may be referred to as "osteokinematic motions" or "osteokinematic joint actions" to differentiate them from "arthrokinematic motions " (e.g., spin, glide, roll, compression, and distraction).

For more (including a video lecture), check out:

• Lesson 6: Joints of the Shoulder Girdle and Scapular Motion

Joints that Perform Scapular Retraction (and Sample Exercises):

• Scapulothoracic Joint (Shoulder Girdle): Scapular anterior tipping occurs around a frontal axis and is an anterior rotational motion over the top of the rib cage. This action may be observed during the end of shoulder extension range of motion, like the bottom portion of a triceps dip, and in the rounded shoulder appearance of individuals exhibiting signs of upper body postural dysfunction .