Posterior Tipping (Scapula)

Scapular Posterior Tipping: A joint action of the scapula (shoulder blade) where the superior portion of the scapula tilts backward, and the inferior angle moves forward. This motion generally occurs as the scapula moves along the curvature of the rib cage. Posterior tipping helps position the glenoid fossa (shoulder socket) for overhead arm movements such as shoulder flexion and abduction. It plays a crucial role in maintaining optimal shoulder mechanics and stability, particularly during activities that involve reaching or lifting.

• Opposing Joint Action: Scapular Anterior Tipping
• Plane of Motion: Sagittal
• Direction Bias: "Pivoting backward"
• 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 posterior tipping occurs around a frontal axis and is a posterior rotational motion over the top of the rib cage. This action may be observed during the end of shoulder flexion and abduction range of motion, like the top portion of an overhead press or the "scaption" portion of I-T-Ys .