Shoulder Rehab Exercises For Pain and Dysfunction

When shoulder rehab exercises are done properly and consistently significant pain and dysfunction can be corrected.  Shoulder pain can be a confusing thing to patients and some clinicians.  In order to properly diagnose shoulder dysfunction an exhaustive history, exam, and functional evaluation of the shoulder, neck, and spine must be performed.

The first step is listening to a patient’s story.  When did their pain start? How did it start? How long have they had pain? Have they had treatment for shoulder pain before? These are just a few of the questions that need to be answered during the history of the complaint.

The next step is the appropriate examination.  During the examination the neck must be examined as well to rule out any condition referring pain to the shoulder.  The proper orthopedic, neurologic, and functional tests must be done.  After this the chiropractor or other health professional should decide whether some form of imaging should be done. 

Once a diagnosis of shoulder dysfunction is reached the proper treatment plan should be constructed.

Possible reasons for shoulder dysfunction:

-          Rotator cuff tear/strain/dysfunction

-          Impingement of a tendon

-          Labrum tear

-          Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)

-          AC joint arthritis

-          Cervical spine dysfunction

-          Muscle imbalance

-          Weak scapular stabilizers

Functional testing that should be performed to base our rehabilitation program around:

T4 Extension

Posterior capsule screening

Subscapularis Adhesion

Pec major/minor screening

Arm Abduction/Flexion

4 point loading/Push up

Hip/Scapular Relationship

Respiration

Shoulder Rehab Exercises:

Scapular Stability:

Closed Chain Scapula:

Training the serratus anterior muscle for scapular stabilization requires PERFECT form everytime.  Start by getting in beginning position.

Scapular Matrix

The scapula (shoulder blade) moves in all 3 planes of motion while using the hips to transfer weight.

Bruggers Posture

This should be used for micro-breaks while at work and for patient that needs thoracic extension and pec stretching.

Foam Roller (Thoracic Extension)

Using a foam roller to induce thoracic extension is a great way to accomplish a mobile mid back.  This aids in shoulder rehabilitation.

Wall Washing

This is a good way to keep the shoulder mobile and healthy.  This also can be used as part of a rehab program.

Rotator Cuff Exercises

Traditional rotator cuff exercises are beneficial, but not as beneficial as using your body weight to add extra functional movements.  Rotator cuff exercises should include a weight transfer to make them as practical as possible.

Shoulder Matrix

This is for the healthy shoulders to keep them healthy.  The shoulder matrix was designed by a colleague to keep the shoulder out of harm’s way and as pain free as possible.

If you're experiencing neck, upper back, or shoulder pain you need to get it checked.  Give our office a call at 317-228-9701 to receive your no obligation free consultation to discuss with our chiropractic physician.

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