Serratus anterior paralysis as an occupational injury in scaffolders: two case reports

Am J Ind Med. 2001 Dec;40(6):710-3. doi: 10.1002/ajim.10021.

Abstract

Background: Shoulder complaints in scaffolders are very common and may result in permanent disability.

Methods: We present two case reports of patients who developed acute shoulder complaints. After lifting weights up to 50 kg both patients suffered an isolated lesion of the long thoracic nerve resulting in serratus anterior paralysis.

Results: Physical signs are unilateral winging of the scapula and loss of strength in the arm. A combined effect of pressure and stretching of the nerve resulted in an occupational injury with a different prognosis of reversibility in both patients.

Conclusion: Shoulder pads in the overall and limiting the weight to carry may prevent future injuries.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Disability Evaluation
  • Electromyography
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Lifting / adverse effects*
  • Male
  • Occupational Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Occupational Diseases / etiology
  • Paralysis / diagnosis*
  • Paralysis / etiology
  • Pectoralis Muscles / innervation
  • Pectoralis Muscles / physiopathology
  • Physical Examination
  • Shoulder Pain / diagnosis
  • Shoulder Pain / etiology*
  • Thoracic Nerves / injuries*