The condition of winged scapula is a kind of health issue which can arise when the scapula, the area of human anatomy more colloquially identified as the shoulder blade, develops in an incorrect position, as can be caused by the mistaken functioning of the thoracic nerve. Winged scapula is named for the distinctive and unusual appearance which the condition causes of a protruding section from the affected individual’s back.

If the thoracic nerve or some other cause triggers the development of a winged scapula, then this condition can lead to further health ill-effects, as can include damage to the state and functioning of the serratus anterior muscle. In other cases, winged scapula has been linked to injuries and reduced functioning suffered by the trapezius muscle. People who are suffering from the condition of winged scapula may, for instance, experience reduced functioning in their arms, such as with the specific physical task of raising arms.

People who determine that they or a loved one has developed the condition of a winged scapula are advised to accordingly seek some form of further medical diagnosis, consultation and treatment, as can be directed toward the end of either defeating or greatly reducing the effects of the condition. In this regard, physical therapy is sometimes ordered for patients in whom thoracic malfunctioning has caused the development of a winged scapula. As an alternative to this route, winged scapula sufferers may also seek treatment in the form of surgery on the affected area of the body.