Does scapular positioning change during low flexion test in asymptomatic individuals?

The Low Flexion (LF) test is a clinical test to quantify glenohumeral joint (GHJ) posterior capsule tightness (PCT). However, there is a concern that the lack of scapula stabilization during the measurement may affect the test. This study analyzed scapula positioning during the application of the LF test in asymptomatic individuals. Thirty individuals without shoulder pain had both shoulders assessed. 3-D scapula positioning was recorded during the LF test by an electromagnetic tracking device. Scapula orientation at two distinct positions (initial and final position) of the measurement was compared using paired-sample t test with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Decreased upward rotation and increased anterior tilt of the scapula were found at the final position of LF test as compared to the initial position of the test. Although scapular positioning was altered at the final position of the LF test, the changes were not clinically meaningful.