Movement Optimism cover image

Movement Optimism

Dr Lori Michener - Who's afraid of scapular dyskinesis?

Jan 24, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Dr. Lori Michener, a Professor of Biomechanics and a leading physical therapist at USC, shares her expertise on shoulder rehabilitation. She delves into the evolving understanding of scapular dyskinesis and its relationship with shoulder pain. Dr. Michener emphasizes individualized treatment strategies over rigid adherence to scapular positions. The dialogue also covers tendon mechanics, the importance of tailored patient education, and the therapeutic value of attentive listening in physical therapy.
40:47

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Dr. Lori Michener emphasizes that focusing on building physical capacity through strength training is more beneficial than altering an athlete's natural mechanics.
  • The reevaluation of scapular dyskinesis indicates that existing asymmetries may not correlate with pain, challenging traditional clinical interpretations of shoulder movement.

Deep dives

Understanding Shoulder Pain Management

Differentiating between biomechanics and coaching is crucial in managing shoulder pain, particularly in baseball players. Applying knowledge from biomechanics labs can optimize performance but attempting to change an athlete's natural pitching mechanics may introduce unintended issues. Dr. Laura Michener emphasizes that building physical capacity through strength training and load management is a more effective strategy than modifying mechanics. This perspective aligns with a consensus that while coaching staff understand acceptable variability in an athlete’s throwing style, altering those mechanics can lead to difficulties and additional injuries.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode