The Strong AF Climbing Podcast 23. Shoulder Series Part II
Aug 6, 2025
Explore the intriguing relationship between MRI findings and shoulder pain in climbers. Discover that structural changes don’t always indicate a problem, revealing surprising insights from elite climbers. Learn practical strategies for managing shoulder health, emphasizing function over imaging. Uncover when medical imaging is truly necessary and how to build stronger, more resilient shoulders. This episode challenges conventional wisdom and reframes the understanding of shoulder health for climbers.
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Common MRI Changes In Climbers
- MRIs often show rotator cuff tendinosis, bursitis, labral and cartilage changes in elite climbers who have no pain.
- These structural findings are common adaptations and don't automatically explain shoulder pain.
Structural Changes Don't Predict Function
- Beeler's sample showed more labral and cartilage changes but climbers had better shoulder function than controls.
- Imaging abnormalities rarely matched symptoms or reduced climbing performance.
Ask If MRI Will Change Treatment
- Ask whether an MRI will change your treatment approach before scheduling one.
- Avoid unnecessary scans that usually don't alter rehab and can increase fear about your shoulder.