
What it is:
• Rounded shoulders is a commonly used and much misunderstood expression. It is usually used to describe a situation where the shoulder girdle is protracted (further forward) than normal often accompanied by a thoracic kyphosis (upper back bent forward).
Causes:
• Movement patterns - developing too much strength in one area.
• Poor posture - prolonged holding of poor position i.e computer.
• Emotional factors - shoulders and chest tightening as part of a 'protective' position.
What not to do:
• Don't just pull them back or sit up straighter. These kind of 'solutions' only serve to make things worse and add even more unnecessary tension into the shoulder region and back.
If left untreated:
• As the shoulder joint and shoulder girdle functions less efficiently in this position it can eventually lead to shoulder and neck problems. This can include rotator-cuff impingement (pain due to lack of efficient space in the sub-acromial 'front shoulder' region) as well as upper back and neck pain.
How I can help:
• Sports therapy can release the chest muscles and fascia (covering of muscles) which tend to get shorter causing the shoulders to drop forward and rotate inward. You will also be given the tools and techniques to help remedy the issue at home. A sports therapist can also work on the rotator-cuff in helping you elimate dysfunction and build strength gradually.
Thanks for reading,
Murray
• Rounded shoulders is a commonly used and much misunderstood expression. It is usually used to describe a situation where the shoulder girdle is protracted (further forward) than normal often accompanied by a thoracic kyphosis (upper back bent forward).
Causes:
• Movement patterns - developing too much strength in one area.
• Poor posture - prolonged holding of poor position i.e computer.
• Emotional factors - shoulders and chest tightening as part of a 'protective' position.
What not to do:
• Don't just pull them back or sit up straighter. These kind of 'solutions' only serve to make things worse and add even more unnecessary tension into the shoulder region and back.
If left untreated:
• As the shoulder joint and shoulder girdle functions less efficiently in this position it can eventually lead to shoulder and neck problems. This can include rotator-cuff impingement (pain due to lack of efficient space in the sub-acromial 'front shoulder' region) as well as upper back and neck pain.
How I can help:
• Sports therapy can release the chest muscles and fascia (covering of muscles) which tend to get shorter causing the shoulders to drop forward and rotate inward. You will also be given the tools and techniques to help remedy the issue at home. A sports therapist can also work on the rotator-cuff in helping you elimate dysfunction and build strength gradually.
Thanks for reading,
Murray