Protraction

Scapular Protraction (Scapular Abduction): A joint action of the scapula (shoulder blades), that is movement away from the spine and towards the front of the body. This motion also causes the glenohumeral joints (shoulders) to be moved anteriorly. This joint action is sometimes referred to as "scapular abduction" because the scapula moves away from the midline of the body.

• Opposing Joint Action: Scapular retraction
• Plane of Motion: Transverse
• Direction Bias: Laterally and anteriorly
• 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 protraction occurs around a vertical axis in a lateral and anterior motion around the rib cage. This action may be observed during during chest exercises like push-ups, bench press , and dumbbell press .