Massage & Bodywork

MAY | JUNE 2022

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L i s te n to T h e A B M P Po d c a s t a t a b m p.co m /p o d c a s t s o r w h e reve r yo u a cce s s yo u r favo r i te p o d c a s t s 69 Imbalances often develop between the powerful internal rotators of the shoulder (pectoralis major, latissimus dorsi, teres major, anterior deltoid, and subscapularis) and the smaller external rotators (posterior deltoid, infraspinatus, and teres minor), creating faulty mechanics in the glenohumeral joint. This presents as a variety of pathologies, including impingement syndrome, tendonitis, and bursitis. Trigger points are more common in the deeper subscapularis but may be responsible for referred pain in the upper extremity. Christy Cael is a licensed massage therapist and certified strength and conditioning specialist. Her private practice focuses on injury treatment, biomechanical analysis, craniosacral therapy, and massage for clients with neurological issues. She is the author of Functional Anatomy: Musculoskeletal Anatomy, Kinesiology, and Palpation for Manual Therapists (New York: Jones & Bartlett Learning, 2010; jblearning.com). Contact her at christy_cael@hotmail.com. TAKEAWAY: The infraspinatus is one of four muscles that make up the rotator cuff and is an essential component for shoulder movements such as pitching and hitting overhead. Imbalances often develop between the powerful internal rotators of the shoulder, manifesting in a variety of pathologies. PALPATING THE INFRASPINATUS Positioning: client prone with their arm off the edge of the table. 1. Palpate the lateral border of the scapula with your thumb. 2. Place the fingers of that same hand medially and superiorly to find the infraspinatus. 3. Locate the muscle belly in the infraspinous fossa of the scapula. 4. Follow the tendon of the infraspinatus superiorly and laterally around the head of the humerus to the greater tubercle of the humerus. 5. Have the client resist shoulder external rotation to ensure proper location. PASSIVE STRETCHING OF THE INFRASPINATUS Positioning: client supine at the edge of the table with their arm relaxed at their side. 1. Stand at the client's side and support the wrist and elbow, maintaining a slightly flexed elbow. 2. Move the arm into shoulder abduction until the elbow is even with the shoulder. 3. From this position, move the arm in and across the body as far as is comfortable. 4. Additional passive internal rotation may be applied to increase the stretch on the infraspinatus muscle.

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