Elevation (Scapula)

Scapular Elevation: This joint action of the scapula (shoulder blades) is movement upwards along the ribcage, towards the ears. This motion elevates the entire shoulder girdle and occurs during actions like "shrugging."

• Opposing Joint Action: Scapular Depression
• Plane of Motion: Frontal
• Direction Bias: Superior
• 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 Elevation (and Sample Exercises):

• Scapulothoracic Joint (Shoulder Girdle): Scapular elevation occurs around an anterior to posterior axis and is superior motion. To visualize this axis and motion, it is best to imagine an axis in the middle of the back and imagine the shoulder blade and arms moving around this axis like the hands of a clock. This action may be observed during "shrugs" and shoulder press .