Three-dimensional scapular kinematics, shoulder outcome measures and quality of life following treatment for breast cancer – A case control study

Abstract Background There are no conclusive results concerning changes in scapular kinematics associated with upper limb dysfunctions after breast cancer surgery. Objective To compare the three-dimensional (3-D) scapular kinematics during elevation of the arm between women after breast cancer surgery and controls. Shoulder range of motion (ROM), muscle strength, pain intensity, upper limb function, and quality of life were also assessed. Methods Forty-two women were assigned to two groups (surgery group, n = 21; control group, n = 21). 3-D scapular kinematics was collected during elevation of the arm in the scapular plane. ROM was assessed using a digital inclinometer, muscle strength using a manual dynamometer, pain with the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), upper limb function with the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire and quality of life with the 36-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF36). Results The surgery group presented decreased scapular upward rotation at 120° of arm elevation in the scapular plane (p  Conclusion Scapular upward rotation seems to be decreased at 120° of arm elevation in women following breast cancer surgery. In addition, shoulder external rotation ROM, abduction strength, external rotation strength, function, and quality of life are also impaired in these women. They also experienced pain during the studied movements.