scapulae

The physical therapist palpates the patient's scapulae during the assessment.

Definition

1. Noun (plural of ):
   • Anatomical term: The "scapulae" are the pair of large, triangular bones located on the upper back, commonly known as the shoulder blades. They connect the humerus (upper arm bone) to the clavicle (collarbone).

Usage Examples

• (The doctor checked the shoulder blade bones.)
• (She concentrated on relaxing the shoulder blades.)

Advanced Usage

• "winged scapulae": a condition where the shoulder blades protrude outward abnormally, often due to muscle weakness or nerve damage.

  • The physical therapist diagnosed him with winged scapulae after observing his posture. (The therapist identified protruding shoulder blades.)

• "scapulae retraction": a movement where the shoulder blades are pulled together toward the spine.

  • Proper scapulae retraction is essential for safe weightlifting. (Pulling the shoulder blades together is important.)

Variants and Related Words

• Scapula (n, singular): one of the two shoulder blades.

  • He injured his left scapula during the fall. (He hurt his left shoulder blade.)

• Scapular (adj): relating to the scapula.

  • The scapular region is located on the upper back. (The area around the shoulder blade.)

Synonyms

• Shoulder blade: the common, non-technical term for the scapula.
  • She felt a sharp pain under her right shoulder blade. (Under the scapula.)

Related Idioms

• None directly associated with "scapulae"; the term is primarily anatomical and technical.