Snapping Scapula Syndrome, Mississauga

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Excellent Osteopathy Service in Mississauga focuses on supporting recovery from musculoskeletal conditions through personalized osteopathic care.

We take a comprehensive approach to assessing movement, posture, and joint function. Our goal is to identify underlying factors that may contribute to pain or restricted mobility.

Through hands-on osteopathic techniques and individualized care plans, we work to improve joint mobility, reduce muscular tension, and support the body’s natural healing process. Our focus is helping patients regain comfortable movement and return to their daily activities with improved physical function.

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Sharanpreet Kaur (D.O.M.P), Manual Osteopathic Practitioner

Snapping Scapula Syndrome is a condition that occurs when the shoulder blade (scapula) moves abnormally against the chest wall. The joint where this movement occurs is called the scapulothoracic joint, which allows the scapula to glide smoothly over the rib cage.

When this movement produces sensations or sounds such as grinding, popping, grating, or thumping, it may be diagnosed as snapping scapula syndrome and may also be accompanied by shoulder pain or discomfort during movement.

Although relatively rare, this condition can develop when the soft tissues between the shoulder blade and rib cage become irritated, inflamed, or thickened. In some cases, the bones of the scapula or ribs may rub against each other, creating the characteristic snapping sensation.

Anatomy

The shoulder is composed of three primary bones:

Humerus (upper arm bone)
Clavicle (collarbone)
Scapula (shoulder blade)

The scapula sits against the back of the rib cage and moves across the chest wall as the arm moves.

Two important muscles support this movement:

Subscapularis Muscle
This muscle covers the front surface of the scapula where it faces the rib cage. It helps stabilize the shoulder and assists with arm rotation.

Serratus Anterior Muscle
This muscle attaches along the inner edge of the scapula and wraps around the chest wall to connect to the ribs. It plays an important role in controlling the movement and positioning of the scapula.

Bursa and Scapulothoracic Bursitis

A bursa is a small fluid-filled sac that helps reduce friction between tissues.

In the scapulothoracic joint:

One bursa lies between the subscapularis and serratus anterior muscles
Another bursa lies between the serratus anterior muscle and the chest wall

When one of these bursae becomes inflamed, the condition is called bursitis.

Scapulothoracic bursitis occurs when the bursa beneath the shoulder blade becomes inflamed. This inflammation can create the grinding or snapping sensation associated with snapping scapula syndrome.

However, bursitis can also exist without any grinding or popping sensations.

Causes

Snapping scapula syndrome can develop due to problems involving the soft tissues or bones surrounding the scapula and chest wall.

Repetitive Shoulder Movements

One of the most common causes is repetitive shoulder activity. Movements that repeatedly raise or rotate the arm can irritate the tissues between the scapula and rib cage.

Examples include:

Throwing sports such as baseball
Swimming
Activities involving repeated overhead motion
Occupations requiring repetitive shoulder movements

Over time, these repeated movements can lead to inflammation and thickening of the soft tissues.

Muscle Weakness or Atrophy

If the muscles beneath the scapula become weak or inactive, they may shrink (atrophy). This reduces the cushioning between the scapula and the rib cage, causing the bones to rub together during shoulder movement.

Bone Alignment Problems

Changes in bone structure can also contribute to snapping scapula syndrome. For example:

Improperly healed fractures of the rib or scapula
Irregular bone surfaces
Bony projections along the scapula

Certain anatomical variations, known as Luschka’s tubercles, can create abnormal bumps or ridges along the upper edge of the scapula. These irregularities may lead to friction during shoulder movement and trigger inflammation in nearby bursae.

Symptoms

The most common symptom of snapping scapula syndrome is a grinding or snapping sensation along the shoulder blade during movement.

Other symptoms may include:

Popping or clicking sounds during shoulder movement
A grinding sensation along the edge of the scapula
Mild discomfort or pain in the shoulder blade area
Tenderness along the inner border of the scapula

When scapulothoracic bursitis is present, the condition may also cause:

Localized pain around the shoulder blade
Swelling or thickened tissue near the scapula
Increased pain during shoulder movement

Diagnosis

Diagnosis begins with a medical history and physical examination.

A healthcare professional will ask questions about:

Previous shoulder injuries
Repetitive shoulder activities
Occupation or sports participation
Past shoulder or upper back problems

During the physical examination, the alignment of the scapula will be evaluated while the patient moves the shoulder. In some cases, a stethoscope may be used to listen for grinding or snapping sounds during movement.

The tissues around the shoulder blade may also be examined to determine whether the bursa is inflamed or tender.

Imaging Tests

Additional imaging tests may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis:

X-rays
These help identify bone abnormalities, fractures, or alignment issues between the scapula and rib cage.

CT Scans
A computed tomography scan provides more detailed images of bone structures and may reveal subtle abnormalities.

MRI Scans
Magnetic resonance imaging is often used to evaluate soft tissues and detect inflamed bursae or muscle irritation.

Treatment

Treatment options depend on the severity of symptoms and the underlying cause of the condition.

Nonsurgical Treatment

Most patients respond well to conservative treatment approaches.

Common treatment options include:

Anti-inflammatory medications
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or aspirin may help reduce pain and inflammation.

Rest and activity modification
Reducing activities that irritate the shoulder can allow inflamed tissues to heal.

Ice therapy
Applying ice to the affected area can reduce inflammation and discomfort.

Physical therapy
Therapy may help improve posture, strengthen shoulder muscles, and reduce stress on the scapulothoracic joint.

Corticosteroid injections
If inflammation persists, a corticosteroid injection may be used to reduce swelling in the affected bursa.

Surgical Treatment

Surgery is typically recommended only when nonsurgical treatments do not provide relief.

Bone Resection

If bone abnormalities are causing the snapping sensation, a surgeon may remove a small portion of the scapula. This procedure smooths the bone surface and reduces friction during movement.

Arthroscopic Bursectomy

In some cases, surgeons may perform arthroscopic surgery to remove an inflamed bursa.

This minimally invasive procedure involves inserting a small camera called an arthroscope through tiny incisions. Specialized instruments are used to remove the inflamed tissue while the surgeon views the procedure on a monitor.

Rehabilitation

Nonsurgical Rehabilitation

For patients receiving nonsurgical treatment, physical therapy may help reduce pain and improve shoulder mechanics.

Rehabilitation may include:

Posture correction
Strengthening exercises for shoulder stabilizing muscles
Techniques to improve scapular movement
Soft tissue treatments to reduce inflammation

Strengthening the muscles beneath the scapula can improve cushioning between the scapula and rib cage and reduce friction.

Post-Surgical Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation following surgery typically involves a structured recovery program.

Patients often wear a shoulder sling for a period after surgery. Passive shoulder movements may begin shortly after the procedure, but active exercises are usually delayed for several weeks to allow proper healing.

Strengthening exercises are typically introduced around 12 weeks after surgery, depending on the individual recovery process.

Working with a physical or occupational therapist can help restore shoulder strength, mobility, and function during recovery.

Our Osteopathic services

Our osteopathy services in Mississauga focuses on hands on care to restore movement, reduce pain, and improve physical function. Each session includes a full assessment of posture, mobility, and injury history to guide precise treatment. Care targets joint restriction, muscle tension, and circulation limits to support faster recovery and daily comfort. Services support injury recovery, chronic pain relief, postural correction, and long term physical balance.

About City Of Mississauga Ontario

Mississauga, Ontario, is a thriving city located along the shores of Lake Ontario, just west of Toronto. As one of Canada’s largest and fastest-growing cities, it is home to a diverse and multicultural population. With Pearson International Airport, the country’s busiest airport, and major corporate headquarters, Mississauga has established itself as a key business and economic hub in Canada. The city’s modern skyline, featuring high-rise condominiums and commercial developments, is complemented by green spaces, waterfront parks, and vibrant cultural attractions.

One of Mississauga’s most notable landmarks is Square One Shopping Centre, one of the largest malls in Canada, attracting millions of visitors each year. The downtown core is rapidly evolving, with new residential and commercial projects reshaping the city’s landscape. Meanwhile, neighborhoods like Port Credit offer a charming, lakefront lifestyle with boutique shops, cafes, and marinas, making it a popular destination for both residents and tourists. Historic Streetsville, with its small-town charm, provides a glimpse into Mississauga’s past while offering modern amenities.

Mississauga is also a city committed to education and innovation, with top-rated schools, colleges, and easy access to leading universities in the Greater Toronto Area. The city’s public transit system is expanding, with new LRT and GO Transit projects aiming to enhance connectivity and reduce congestion. With a strong focus on community development and sustainability, Mississauga continues to improve its infrastructure, recreational spaces, and public services to meet the needs of its growing population.

Beyond its economic success, Mississauga is a welcoming and family-friendly city with a strong sense of community. The city hosts numerous cultural festivals, outdoor events, and recreational activities, celebrating its diverse population. Whether enjoying waterfront trails in Lakeview, exploring Erin Mills and Meadowvale’s parks, or experiencing arts and performances at the Living Arts Centre, Mississauga offers something for everyone. With its blend of urban convenience and suburban comfort, it remains a top choice for those looking to live, work, and thrive in a dynamic and inclusive environment.

Major Street Intersections

Neighbourhood

Postal Codes

Central Mississauga

L4Z,
L5B,
L5C

North Mississauga

West Mississauga

East Mississauga

South Mississauga

Others

Square One Shopping Centre

Heartland Town Centre

Toronto Pearson International Airport

References

Physio-Pedia – Snapping Scapula Syndrome https://www.physio-pedia.com/Snapping_Scapula_Syndrome

Carvalho et al. – Snapping Scapula Syndrome: Pictorial Essay (PMC article) https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6696755/

ChoosePT – Physical Therapy Guide to Snapping Scapula Syndrome https://www.choosept.com/guide/physical-therapy-guide-snapping-scapula-syndrome

Statistics Canada. (2024, July 23). 51.1202 – Osteopathic medicine/osteopathy (DO): Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) Canada 2021 Version 1.0. Government of Canada. https://www23.statcan.gc.ca/imdb/p3VD.pl?Function=getVD&TVD=1420413&CVD=1420923&CPV=51.1202&CST=15052022&CLV=3&MLV=3

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