Bill, Bryanc, ? Re: Physical Therpay Progression

[kinney1]

I am finally recovering from a shoulder impingment/tendonitis. I think I am ready to start SLOWLY incorporating some weight lifting with my shoulder rehabilitation stretches and exercises. I intend on still diligently performing my rehab work, but I want to add some new work. I will avoid all pressing exercises for a while still, but I was thinking about adding DB Rows next week. Any other relatively safe upper body exercises you might recommend? Thanks, Kevin

[bryanc]

What structures did/do you have impinged? And other than rehab, did you do anything else for it (i.e. surgery)? Are you actively seeing a physiotherapist, or on home therapy? What's your pain-free range of motion like (forwards, backwards, sideways and rotational--in approximated degrees)?

[kinney1]

To be honest I don't know what structures were impinged. I know that the MRI results noted a shoulder impingment. The PT also felt I might have bicipital tendonitis, so I have also avoided direct bicep work. I have been to PT, ART therapy, and an ortho for a few visits. The ortho has also given me a cortisone shot in my shoulder that provided some relief. My PT provided me with a good home therapy program that I follow. My range of motion is the best it has been in a few years. Flexion, or when my arms are raised straight in front of my head is the only discomfort now - and that is mild and only at 180 degrees. Backwards, and sideways there is no pain/discomfort. I am not sure what Rotational is. Since I am all through with my PT, any advice is helpful. Thanks. Kevin