Research along with years of observation has taught me that the brain is inherently looking for the most efficient way (aka least effort) to execute movement in life. \u00a0In addition, it HATES pain just like you and I so it does everything possible to avoid it including ordering the body to perform dysfunctional movement patterns.<\/p>\n
After a painful episode, the brain often needs reminded that the body can go back to the proper movement patterns once the pain is gone. \u00a0However, it often holds that painful memory and may by default lean toward a faulty movement pattern. \u00a0This protective mode then ends up perpetuating a faulty movement pattern that is no longer necessary nor efficient. \u00a0Over time, dysfunctional movement patterns can create further stress or harm to other segments in the kinetic chain.<\/p>\n
So, I am always seeking ways to stimulate the body to work properly and exercises that facilitate proper neuromuscular patterning are instrumental in my rehab and training. \u00a0I wanted to share two exercises that I like to utilize in my rehab and training for the shoulder. \u00a0In particular, I like to employ closed chain activity to stimulate the serratus anterior as well as the other scapular stabilizers.<\/p>\n
Below are two exercises I wrote about in my “Functionally Fit” column for PFP magazine. \u00a0The first exercise shows quadruped rocking. \u00a0Shirley Sahrmann mentions this in her work, Diagnosis and Treatment of Movement Impairment Syndromes. \u00a0I began using it after reading her book, and I agree that it works very well for scapular dysfunction. \u00a0Below is the start and finish position for the quadruped version as well as my own advanced tripod version of the exercise.<\/p>\n\n\t\t