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Braun Performance and Rehab

Dr. Angela Gordon: Differential Diagnosis & Treatment of Anterior Shoulder Pain in Overhead Athletes

Jul 29, 2024
Dr. Angela Gordon, a seasoned physical therapist with over 16 years of experience and a background in athletic training, dives deep into anterior shoulder pain in overhead athletes. She emphasizes the complexity of diagnosis, advocating for a holistic understanding of shoulder mechanics. The discussion includes optimizing athlete performance through tailored rehabilitation strategies, assessing return-to-play standards, and innovative evaluation techniques. Dr. Gordon also critiques traditional assessment methods, promoting a focus on neuromuscular control and objective measurements.
46:58

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Anterior shoulder pain in overhead athletes can arise from various anatomical structures rather than solely focusing on the biceps tendon or labrum.
  • A comprehensive assessment considering the kinetic chain and biomechanics is crucial for effective treatment and rehabilitation of shoulder issues.

Deep dives

Understanding Anterior Shoulder Pain

Anterior shoulder pain in overhead athletes often stems from various anatomical structures rather than solely from the biceps tendon or labrum. The discussion highlights how pain in this area can be attributed to factors such as scapular stability and humeral head position. Clinicians are urged to look at the entire shoulder complex—including the glenohumeral joint, scapular thoracic joint, and even the cervical and thoracic spine—rather than fixating on specific areas where pain is felt. This comprehensive approach allows for a more accurate identification of potential issues, leading to effective treatment strategies.

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