How to Improve Your Shoulder Health
Do you ever stop to think about how many times you lift, push, pull, or throw throughout the day?
Our daily activities involve countless motions, and many of them rely heavily on the shoulder.
Our shoulders are incredibly versatile joints, yet despite their versatility, they’re also highly susceptible to injuries and discomfort due to their complex structure and frequent use.
Maintaining good shoulder health is crucial for overall mobility and functionality, enabling us to carry out everyday tasks with ease — and without pain.
The Importance of Mobility and Strength
Mobility and strength are two key components of shoulder health that work hand-in-hand to ensure optimal function.
Mobility refers to the range of motion available at the shoulder joint, allowing it to move freely and efficiently in various directions. Improving mobility helps prevent stiffness and increases flexibility, making everyday movements easier and more comfortable.
Strength involves building the muscles surrounding the shoulder joint, providing stability and support. Strong shoulder muscles can better handle the demands of physical activities, reducing the risk of injuries such as strains or tears.
Focusing on both mobility and strength not only enhances overall shoulder function but also helps alleviate pain, prevent injuries, and improve performance in daily activities and sports.
Exercises to Improve Shoulder Health
In the video above, Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant, Hannah Farkas, COTA/L, demonstrates a comprehensive shoulder workout with exercises to improve shoulder mobility and strength.
Here’s a quick overview of what you can expect in the video:
- Warmup: Before diving into any exercise, it’s important to warm up the muscles and joints. The video includes a warmup segment designed to increase blood flow and prepare your shoulders for the workout.
- Mobility Exercises: Mobility exercises help to stretch and lengthen the muscles, tendons, and ligaments around the shoulder, promoting flexibility and reducing stiffness.
- Strengthening Exercises: Strengthening exercises target the rotator cuff, deltoids, and other key muscle groups. Strengthening these muscles can prevent injuries and enhance overall shoulder function.
- Cooldown: A proper cooldown is just as important as a warmup. Our cooldown segment includes stretches to help reduce muscle soreness and promote recovery
Each exercise in this workout can be done with or without light weights. If you don’t have weights, common household items like water bottles or soup cans could be used. Each of these exercises can also be done standing or sitting.
Incorporate these at-home exercises into your routine to enjoy the benefits of strong and flexible shoulders, and a more active and pain-free lifestyle!
Want help building shoulder strength and mobility?
If you’re struggling with shoulder weakness, pain, or injury and would like a personalized plan to feel and move your best, our Occupational Therapists can help.
Treatment is covered by insurance, no referral is needed to start, and with flexible appointments available now, you can find a time that works with your schedule.
Call 716-458-1990 or click below to schedule online.