Kimura proof your shoulders: Part 2
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As I mentioned in my last post the most common complaint I hear on the mat is shoulder stiffness. Overhead movement is dependent on having adequate mobility for the 4 joints in the shoulder complex + thoracic spine.
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Here is one joint mobilization I use to improve overhead motion. This technique is used to distract the glenohumeral joint from the glenoid fossa as well as stretching the lat muscle. I prefer to use a mobility band so there is some stretch. Note: I try to relax my hand and arm as much as possible and just loop my hand through to get a sufficient enough distraction force. Use a gentle pull and stop when you feel the shoulder open up. Stop if there is pain and if you feel pain after you pulled too much.
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After you improve your shoulder range of motion make sure to perform end-range isometric contractions and full active overhead motion to teach your body how to use the new available range.
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I would not use this mobilization for any of my patients who have shoulder instability, “looseness” or history of shoulder dislocations.