To fix your pain problem, you can’t just look at the spot where it hurts – you have to look at the entire integrated movement pattern.

If you have pain or movement limitation of your shoulder, the logical trail leads back to your shoulder blade – the scapula – and the muscles that support it.

The most common shoulder problems, including impingement, rotator cuff pain, labral tears, and more, can all be traced back to shoulder blade imbalances.

A thorough rehab program for shoulder problems has to include

• An analysis of your posture and pattern of muscle engagement when you move your arm
• Connective tissue treatment for the tendons and ligaments of the shoulder that are giving you trouble
• Analysis of your daily activities and athletic pursuits to determine where extra shoulder stress adds up
• Targeted strengthening exercises for the lower trapezius, serratus anterior, and the other muscles that anchor the scapula
• And, if poor alignment of the neck and upper back are contributing to your problem too, mobilization of the joints of the spine.

You can take a big step toward rehabbing your shoulder problem by taking a look at Dr. Lavine’s video – Top Five Exercises to Strengthen Your Shoulder and Prevent Rotator Cuff Injuries

Dr. Lavine has been an innovator in the use of movement and touch to promote health since 1981. He practices in New York City and Princeton, NJ.

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Swimmers’ overuse injuries of the shoulder