Shoulder Stiffness.

[JonnyDav]

I injured my shoulder a year ago in a Judo competition and ever since, well, recently it seems that my shoulder is stiff as hell. For example, when i am doing dumbell shoulder press i cannot push my shoulder all the way up.

I have tried lighter weights, even doing it without weights, it's still stiff. I don't know whether it is arthritis....

Anyone got any good exercises to get this joint loose again?

Jon.

[FishrCutB8]

I'll give you a hint: look for a post that mentions shoulder pain.....in this forum.....right......under.... .this......one....

[Bill Hartman]

Jonny,

Hold your arm straight out in front of you at shoulder level. Bend your elbow 90 degrees such that your palm faces the floor (forearm is now parallel to the floor, in front of you).

Simultaneously raise your elbow slightly and move your hand toward the floor such that your upper arm rotates. Any pain?

Another check...reach behind your back (not over the should, but rather like you would to tuck your shirt in)... can you touch the opposite shoulder blade?

If you don't have any pain it sound like you're on your way to having some. As you get stronger, connective tissues will increase stiffness which can reduce active flexibility. This can result in impingement.

Bill

[JonnyDav]

Thanks for the advice Bill. Do you think that since the injury and no proper physio that the ligaments have become stiff. Should I have a few physio sessions to try and fix the problem?

[Bill Hartman]

I think it's worth the assessment at least. Something is going on there. Could be a tight posterior capsule or external rotators. Could be something else. Limitation in range like that should be addressed.

I'd also stop all overhead work as restricted range will cause some form of subacromial trauma. It might not show up now, but it will later.

Bill