Functional Exercises - Rotator Cuff Strain
Functional exercises should be used in the late stages of rehabilitation. They are exercises which prepare your shoulder for daily, occupational and sporting activities.
The following guidelines are for information purposes only. We recommend seeking professional advice before beginning rehabilitation.
They should be different from person to person, depending on what your job entails and what sports you play. Here is just an example of some common functional exercises.
Ball throwing
Many sports involve either throwing a ball (e.g. baseball, cricket) or using a racket (tennis, badminton, squash). Rehabilitation of a shoulder injury in players of any of these sports, should include throwing drills. This allows you to start at a very low level and gradually build up the speed and force you use, until you are at full match level.
- Start off by throwing a small, light ball (such as a tennis ball), underarm against a wall (or with a partner if you're lucky!)
- Start very gently and increase the speed and force (and so distance) you throw with.
- Start to use a heavier ball such as a netball
- Go back to a tennis ball and start overhead throws.
- Start gently, close to the wall and increase distance and force.
- Use both hands together initially if you want.
- Progress gradually (over several sessions) to a heavier ball, single handed, at full power.
Resistance band movements
Try using a resistance band to mimic the movements which are common in your job/sport. For example:
- Tie one end of a resistance band to something sturdy
- Hold the other in your hand
- Swing your arm as if performing a tennis serve (or a forehand, backhand etc)
- Start gently and gradually build up the intensity (over several sessions) until you are at full swing.
- The same can be done for movements such as a golf swing, baseball pitch etc
