How to Identify and Help Prevent Future Shoulder Arthritis

The shoulders take a significant beating throughout life, primarily because they are involved in so many activities, have so much freedom of movement, and depend on so many other joints working correctly.

The humerus bone connects to the scapula (shoulder blade) and forms a ball-and-socket joint. It is held in place by a capsule and the rotator cuff, a group of 4 muscles that pull the head of the humerus into the socket.

For normal, full overhead shoulder movement to occur, all of the surrounding joints (AC, SC, Scapulothoracic, and lower cervical/upper thoracic joints). To complicate matters, most large movements that hurt the shoulder (golf, for example) involve the legs and trunk. If any of those areas move incorrectly or not enough, the shoulder and rotator cuff often absorb the stress.

It would be impossible to write one article to address all the joints and muscles around the body that can influence the shoulder. Analyzing that requires a thorough history and exam. However, there are some key identifiers of future problems that can be present LONG before you ever have symptoms.

Shoulder Elevation

Empty Can

Shoulder Internal Range-of-Motion

Shoulder External Range-of-Motion .

DISCLAIMER:
The information presented on DaiseyPT.com is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or physical therapy advice. You should not use the information on this web site for diagnosing or treating a medical or health condition. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, promptly contact your professional healthcare provider.

The exercises presented in these articles pose risks if performed incorrectly or if performed by persons who may be inappropriate for them. They are provided for informational purposes only and to provide education and insight into a particular interest. Daisey Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine Inc. does not recommend performing them without a complete history and examination as well as professional instruction. Daisey Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine assumes no liability for any injury that may occur by attempting the exercises presented here.