Before Lifting Overhead, Try THIS!

Many exercise routines and strength regimes tend to incorporate of some sort of pressing overhead.  Alternating arms, both arms, military press, even overhead triceps work, and the list can go on and on.  It is a GREAT way to target multiple muscles in the shoulder BUT (a BIG but) you MUST make sure you have enough shoulder range of motion (ROM) to complete the task.  If you cannot complete the motion withOUT weight, what makes you think you can do it WITH weight?  Here is the check:

Supine Shoulder Flexion

Start by laying on your back, knees bent and hands by your sides.  Next, arch your arm overhead.

You should be able to have your hand and arm touch the ground overhead with 

• no pain
• no arching low back

If you can, GREAT.  You are all set.  If not, there are many things that you can do to improve that ROM.

If you have any questions, please let us know.
Dominick
dominick@sanramonvalleypt.com