Wednesday, December 3, 2008

Rotator Cuff injuries

The most common of all injuries from weight training involve the rotator cuff. These muscles(teres minor, subscapularis, supraspinatus, and infraspinatus)maintain the humeral head in its proper location within the glenoid cavity. (shoulder)

Injuries to these muscles are caused by improper form when lifting weight. Many experienced weight trainers concentrate their efforts on biceps, triceps, pectoralis muscles and deltoids but neglect and injure these very important parts of their bodies. One of the most common mistakes is to go below 90 degrees when performing exercises such as lateral raises and overhead presses. The supraspinatus, for example, is a small pinkie-sized muscle that can easily be injured in this way. It cannot lift more than 5 lbs. without ripping and tearing.

I am amazed at how many people I see lifting serious weight improperly at gyms. What's worse is that many of these folks are being trained by licensed trainers who clearly should know better.

The rotators need to be trained and these exercises must be done properly. It is basically a series of 4 movements that are easy to learn and to incorporate into one's routine. Make an appointment at the studio and I will show you these exercises.

Proper form and technique is simple to learn and is ALWAYS used at the Mind-Body fitness studio. You will NOT get hurt on my watch.

Sessions are private and one-on-one. Call 631-880-2531. By appointment only.

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