The unsung heroes of the rotator cuff!
The infraspinatus and teres minor may not always get the spotlight, but they’re the unsung heroes of the rotator cuff!
These two little muscles do an amazing job keeping your shoulder stable. In fact, they’re the only external rotators of the shoulder joint, which means they work extra hard to balance out the stronger internal rotators like the pec major, lats, teres major, anterior deltoid, and subscapularis.
When working with these muscles, a great technique to try is called "goading." This just means using strokes from the outside (lateral) to the inside (medial) to help them shorten and become more contractible.
PS- Instead of creating more strength in the internal rotators encourage your clients to do some simple exercises which strengthen the posterior thoracic and scapular stabilizers
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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.