Forge Injury & Performance - Manchester

Suitcase carries

40KG kettlebell carries new PB this exercise is absolutely horrible and great to build core stability

Anti side flexion work teaches our core to be able to brace and not break Espicalky focusing on our lateral core such as oblique muscles while also strnegthing our posture chain

These are a stable in a wide range of muscles and can be used for lower back pain / knee rehab / hip rehab anything really.

What can we actually see during Bobby’s shoulder assessment? 👀

As Bobby elevates his right arm, there are a few key movement patterns that stand out…

✅ 1. Scapular dyskinesis
The right scapula demonstrates altered movement during shoulder elevation, with mild winging and reduced upward rotation compared to the opposite side.

What is scapular dyskinesis?
Scapular dyskinesis simply means an alteration in the normal position or movement of the shoulder blade. It isn’t a diagnosis and it isn’t always painful—in fact, many athletes have some degree of dyskinesis without symptoms.

The important question is why it’s occurring.

✅ 2. Altered scapulothoracic mechanics
During arm elevation, the scapula should upwardly rotate, posteriorly tilt and externally rotate to maintain the subacromial space and provide a stable base for the rotator cuff.

In this case, those movement patterns appeared less efficient, suggesting altered scapulothoracic mechanics.

Potential contributors can include:
• Previous nerve injury.
• Reduced neuromuscular control.
• Weakness of the serratus anterior and lower trapezius.
• Thoracic spine stiffness.
• Fatigue or training load.

✅ 3. Upper trapezius dominance
As the shoulder elevates, the upper trapezius becomes increasingly dominant.

This often represents a compensatory strategy rather than the primary problem. If muscles such as the serratus anterior or lower trapezius aren’t contributing effectively, the upper trapezius may increase its activity to help achieve overhead movement.

✅ 4. Increased levator scapulae tone
The levator scapulae elevates the scapula and assists with downward rotation.

⚠️ Can we diagnose this from movement alone?
No.

Movement assessment provides valuable information, but it’s only one part of the clinical picture. Strength testing, symptom behaviour, previous injury history, objective testing and response to loading are all essential before drawing conclusions.

At , we don’t just treat painful muscles—we identify why movement has changed and build a rehabilitation programme that restores strength, control and confidence over time. 💪