Should I be doing weightlifting with shoulder problems?
Question:
I’ve got a case of frozen shoulder in my left shoulder where certain arm movements are agonizingly painful. The Doctor said it could last 6 months to a year. I had it in the other shoulder about four years ago, and it took 9 months, so I’m expecting about the same thing this time.
The problem is, I’m having some trouble with weightlifting. Obviously, shoulder exercises are causing some problems (I’m only able to side lift five pounds on my left side, but can do 40 on my right), but I’m also having problems with pulldown and bench presses. Can anyone offer some alternatives for back and chest exercises that won’t use my shoulder so much? Will doing my shoulder exercises “lopsided” for nine months have a negative impact? Thanks
Answer:
Frozen shoulder syndrome (Adhesive Capsulitis) sounds a lot like Bell’s Palsy in the face. I had Bell’s Palsy in Feb 2011. It was gone within a month, but frozen shoulder can take months to clear up. Here’s what it is
Symptoms of Adhesive Capsulitis
This condition has been described in three phases, so the symptoms will differ depending on the phase of the condition.
The Painful Phase
- Gradual onset of aching shoulder
- Developing widespread pain, often worst at night and when lying on the affected side
- This phase can last anywhere between 2-9 months
The Stiffening Phase
- Stiffness starts to become a problem
- Pain level usually does not alter
- Difficulty with normal daily tasks such as dressing, preparing food, carrying bags, working
- Muscle wastage may be evident due to lack of use
- This stage can last between 4-12 months
The Thawing Phase
- Gradual improvement in range of movement
- Gradual decrease in pain, although it may re-appear as stiffness eases
- This stage can last between 5-12 months
Click here to read more about your treatment for frozen shoulder syndrome.
Lifting weights should be avoided. Sounds like stretching exercises and low impact muscle strengthening is a good choice.
Get a set of these Bodylastics resistance bands. Even the 88 lb Basic Tension set will work. Then have sets up to 388 lbs. The Basic Tension set comes with 4 bands from 5 lbs to 19 lbs, but they can be combined in any configuration for custom resistance levels. The bands will give you smooth resistance, unlike the hurky jerky motion of weights. Physiotherapists use resistance bands because of their smooth resistance and low to no impact.
Right now Bodylastics is have a massive Black Friday sale and you can pick a Bodylastics complete home gym system from 15-25% off. I suggest taking advantage of the sale and get one of the heavier sets. It’s cheaper than buying extra bands later on.
Now, what do you do with the bands? Bodylastics has these free workout shows. There are 11 different online shows, all free.
