I’m happy to report that Judy’s trainer is doing stabilization exercises with her at my suggestion. In our last session I could actually palpate and work with her her subscap and serratus anterior!
Lions And Tigers And Super-Glued Scapulae, Oh My!
May 12, 2023
Judy is a warm and generous 69 year old quilter who is coming to me for neck and shoulder issues. During the intake she told me she works with a personal trainer once a week. “That’s terrific!” I said. I’m always happy when people are committed to their self-care. I ASSUMED that her trainer had her doing scapulae stabilization exercises.
During our first session I discovered while trying to work with her subscap and serratus anterior that her scapula was so protracted and anteriorly tilted that I could barely palpate either muscle.
After our session I asked her some detailed questions about what exercises she was doing with her personal trainer. I showed her about five examples of scapulae stabilization exercises. “No, she doesn’t have me doing anything like that.” Judy said. “Ah, never assume!,” I thought to myself.
Below are some issues that arise when the scapulae are glued to the thorax:
- The scapulae are not able to glide on the thorax putting too much pressure on the shoulder joint.
- The scapulae are not resting in an advantageous biomechanical position for both stability and mobility.
- Decreased range of movement
- Increased pain and discomfort
What would help Judy? Since she spends so much of her time at her sewing machine creating her amazing quilts her shoulders are rounded with a forward head.
In addition to skilled bodywork on her neck and shoulders, Judy would definitely benefit from a variety of stabilization exercises like “Push the Towel” shown below. All you need is a wall and a towel and it’s great for all the scapulae stabilizers especially serratus anterior.
Skilled bodywork and the right corrective exercises is a winning combination!
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Author
Peggy Lamb
Author
Peggy Lamb, LMT, BCTMB, MA is the founder of Massage Publications/The Abundant Bodyworker providing resources for massage therapists with continuing education courses, books, videos and business coaching. Her coaching and course work empower LMT’s so abundance and prosperity flows into their lives. Although a bit of a "reluctant businesswoman" she nevertheless has built multiple streams of income through her various projects. Peggy brings her eclectic and extensive background into her teaching for an interesting, enjoyable and enlightening learning experience. In addition to her extensive training in massage therapy, Peggy holds a master’s degree in Dance from American University in Washington, D.C. She has volunteered for over 10 years with “Truth be Told”, teaching creative movement and writing to incarcerated women. When she’s not working, Peggy can be found dancing, swimming in Austin’s Barton Springs, hiking or even dog sledding.