Winged shoulder blades are rare anatomical conditions. Even so, winged shoulder blades can interfere with daily activities and reduce self-confidence. Recognize the causes of winged shoulder blades and what can be done to overcome this condition. As the name implies, shoulder blades will protrude until they form like wings. This condition can interfere with the alignment of arm movements. As a result, movement is very limited, for example when lifting things, brushing teeth, combing hair or changing clothes. Causes of Winged Scapula Winged shoulder blades can be caused by a variety of things, ranging from trauma, muscle injuries, to unknown causes. This causes nerve injury and paralysis of the scapula, such as the one hundred anterior, trapezius or rhomboid muscles. As a result, these muscles cannot pull the shoulder blades and make them stand out like wings. The condition of winged shoulder blades can also be affected by side effects of certain therapies or medical procedures.