What adjustments would you make for a client with shoulder impingement during reformer arm work?

What adjustments would you make for a client with shoulder impingement during reformer arm work?

• A. Limit overhead and abduction ranges, avoid internal rotation discomfort, use neutral shoulder alignment and strap positions that reduce impingement.
• B. Increase range of overhead to improve mobility.
• C. Use heavy resistance to push through pain.
• D. Ignore pain and continue.

Answer: (A)

When a client has shoulder impingement during reformer arm work, focus on reducing positions that compress the subacromial space while keeping the shoulder girdle stable and pain-free. The best approach is to limit overhead and abduction ranges, avoid internal rotation discomfort, and use neutral shoulder alignment with strap placements that minimize impingement. This keeps the humeral head centered under the acromion, protects irritated tissues, and allows safe activation of the rotator cuff and scapular stabilizers without provoking pain. Ramping up overhead range or forcing through pain is not safe, as it increases pinching and can worsen inflammation. Ignoring pain and continuing ignores a warning signal from the body and risks further injury. So stick to controlled, pain-free ranges with proper alignment, and progress gradually as tolerance improves.

When a client has shoulder impingement during reformer arm work, focus on reducing positions that compress the subacromial space while keeping the shoulder girdle stable and pain-free. The best approach is to limit overhead and abduction ranges, avoid internal rotation discomfort, and use neutral shoulder alignment with strap placements that minimize impingement. This keeps the humeral head centered under the acromion, protects irritated tissues, and allows safe activation of the rotator cuff and scapular stabilizers without provoking pain.

Ramping up overhead range or forcing through pain is not safe, as it increases pinching and can worsen inflammation. Ignoring pain and continuing ignores a warning signal from the body and risks further injury. So stick to controlled, pain-free ranges with proper alignment, and progress gradually as tolerance improves.