The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the human body, which is fantastic, because it allows you to do all the things you love...
The way we commonly explain the shoulder joint to help patients visualise it is that, although it is a ball and socket joint, it is similar to a golf ball sitting on a golf tee
There's a socket, yes, but it's shallow, which is why the head of the humerus (arm bone) can move in so many directions
But, the mobility of the shoulder joint means that the surrounding structures form a complex system for stability
and yes, tight muscles around the shoulder can be a limiting factor in mobility. But, what often gets overlooked (in my opinion) is the shoulder capsule
What is the capsule?
It's the group of ligaments that surround the shoulder joint and prevent it from dislocating
In some people, the capsule may be too loose (previous shoulder dislocation or a long history of throwing sports), but for others, capsular restriction, may be another limiting factor in the ability to overhead squat proficiently
Just something to consider if you smash the muscles all day, but are not seeing noticable improvements in the overhead position
Dr Dray
