Khaberni - Exercise is a foundation for strength, flexibility, and maintaining general health, but some common movements in gyms can lead to excessive stress on joints, especially when performed incorrectly or without enough flexibility.
This can cause gradual damage to the shoulders over time; which mandates practitioners to carefully choose exercises, not only to enjoy strength but also to protect the joints.
The dangerous exercise.. Overhead Military Press
Dr. Patrick Denard, an orthopedic surgeon, warned about the overhead military press, pointing out that it is one of the most damaging exercises for the shoulder joint when practiced routinely or incorrectly.
He explained in a video posted on Instagram: "I specialize in shoulder repairs, and this exercise is my least favorite, as it places immense pressure on the shoulder and increases the risk of wear and tear and long-term injury."
Safer Alternatives
To maintain shoulder health and strengthen muscles without straining the joints, Dr. Denard recommended arm abduction exercises using light weights, focusing on controlled lifting and slow lowering of the weight.
The surgeon says: "If you want to protect the rotator cuff tendons while simultaneously strengthening your shoulders, I am a strong proponent of abduction exercises, especially eccentric lifting with very light weights. Lift the weight to the level of the shoulder blade and then lower it very slowly, to activate the muscles while keeping the tendons safe."
