Shoulder stabilizing and strengthening method and apparatus

Abstract

A method and adjustable apparatus for stabilizing and strengthening the shoulder muscles and rotator cuff provides an active range of motion activities that can be performed with or without resistance. In particular, the method and apparatus provide for scapular retraction and protraction, shoulder flexion, extension, adduction and abduction, as well as internal and external shoulder rotation, performed horizontally and vertically. All of these motions are beneficial to the shoulder joint because they allow the joint to move freely throughout its normal range of motion using natural mechanics of the rotator cuff and surrounding muscles. The method and apparatus provide the essential benefit of stabilizing the shoulder and rotator cuff throughout these motions so that the user's range of motion and strength building is optimized. The method and apparatus also provide for self myofascial release techniques to decrease spasm.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] 1. Field of the Invention [0002] The present invention relates generally to shoulder stabilizer apparatus and more specifically it relates to an adjustable apparatus to stabilize the shoulder and rotator cuff, thereby allowing an individual to optimize their shoulder range of motion and strength, as well as to allow for self myofascial release techniques to decrease spasm. [0003] 2. Discussion of the Related Art [0004] It can be appreciated that shoulder stabilizer apparatus have been in use for years. Typically, shoulder stabilizer apparatus are comprised of an exercise device that is used for the development of the rotator cuff musculature of a user by isolating the head of the humerus in the glenoid cavity during internal and external rotation. [0005] The main problem with conventional shoulder stabilizer apparatus is not having the shoulder stabilized in the most optimal position for strengthening the rotator cuff muscles. In particular, existi...

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