Serratus Palsy – An Update - Abstract
Isolated serratus palsy is a rare condition with lack of adequate fixation of the scapula against the rib cage during active flexion and abduction causing decreased strength and motion in these movements [1,2]. Multiple pathologies can lead to SP, but
injury to the long thoracic nerve caused by trauma or strenuous exertion has been considered as the most common cause [3,4]. Damage to this periscapular muscle results in uncoordinated scapulohumeral rhythm during shoulder elevation and can
potentially cause subsequent glenohumeral and subscapular pain, subacromial impingement, muscle fatigue, and glenohumeral joint instability [5]. Patients with serratus palsy have trouble with activities of daily living, they must diminish sports activities and they complain of major negative impact on quality of life. Complete recovery is possible within 2 years [1,6,7] but recovery is often only partial [8]. This article only deals with ENMG-verified serratus palsies