The shoulder girdle rotates approximately how much during gait?

The shoulder girdle rotates approximately how much during gait?

• A. 1-2°
• B. 20-30°
• C. 7-9°
• D. 0°

Answer: (C)

During gait, the shoulder girdle only needs a small amount of rotation to allow the arms to swing naturally with the trunk. This keeps the movement energy-efficient and balanced without causing excess shoulder motion. In healthy walking, the scapulothoracic complex rotates about 7–9 degrees. Larger rotations (like 20–30°) would reflect exaggerated arm movement or pathology, while essentially no rotation (0°) would limit arm swing. So the typical, normal amount is 7–9 degrees.

During gait, the shoulder girdle only needs a small amount of rotation to allow the arms to swing naturally with the trunk. This keeps the movement energy-efficient and balanced without causing excess shoulder motion. In healthy walking, the scapulothoracic complex rotates about 7–9 degrees. Larger rotations (like 20–30°) would reflect exaggerated arm movement or pathology, while essentially no rotation (0°) would limit arm swing. So the typical, normal amount is 7–9 degrees.