Downward Rotation (Scapula)

Scapular Downward Rotation: Movement of the scapula (shoulder blades) where the inferior angle of the scapula moves downward and inward, causing the glenoid fossa (shoulder socket) to tilt downward. This motion occurs as the arms are lowered from an overhead position, such as when lowering the arms to the side or performing a pull-up . Downward rotation helps to return the scapula to its resting position after upward rotation.

• Opposing Joint Action: Scapular Upward Rotation
• Plane of Motion: Frontal
• Direction Bias: Rotation like the hands of a clock, down and in. (When facing someone's back, the left side would rotate counter-clockwise, and the right side would rotate clockwise).
• 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 Protraction (and Sample Exercises):

• Scapulothoracic Joint (Shoulder Girdle): Scapula downward rotation occurs around a sagittal axis in rotational motion parallel to the posterior aspect of the ribs. This action may be observed during a pull-up or pull-down .