Q Are there any exercises that help with shoulder impingement syndrome? Conversely, what exercises should be avoided?
A Strengthening exercises for the lower trapezius and external rotators (infraspinatus and teres minor) are effective in improving symptoms by widening the subacromial space. On the other hand, overhead movements that raise the arms (presses, freestyle swimming) cause repeated impingement and should be avoided during treatment.
Detailed Answer
The key to rehabilitation for shoulder impingement syndrome is strengthening the muscle groups that dynamically maintain the subacromial space. Recommended exercises include: ① external rotation using a resistance band, ② lying side-lying external rotation, and ③ Y-T exercises targeting the lower trapezius. Exercises to avoid include: ① overhead presses, ② carrying a heavy backpack (on one shoulder), ③ push-ups (acute phase), and ④ freestyle crawl movements. Start within a pain-free range and gradually increase the intensity. Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective Korean medicine places great importance on restoring the balance of muscle and tendon function. When the circulation of Qi and blood through the shoulder and arm improves, the effects of exercise therapy appear more quickly. At Dongjedang, we guide patients to begin exercise after first relaxing tense muscles and tendons with acupuncture and moxibustion, and we gradually reduce the intensity of external treatments as the range of motion recovers without pain.
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