If you have shoulder problems

[labrad]

I have always had shoulder problems due to lifting weights. Yeah, I have good form and never do less than 5 reps, but I have on occasion had rotator cuff problems. Nothing to warrant surgery, but enough to keep me away from certain exercises.

What I have done so far that has helped. I have given up barbell bench presses in favor of neutral grip (palms facing each other) DB bench presses. I do incline and decline DB bench presses the same way. Further, I use a neutral grip for DB overhead presses.

Yeah, you can't lift as much, but I believe they (neutral grip) hit the target muscle a lot better. Further, I am more into "bodybuilding" than heaving heavy weights around. For those of you who have that nagging shoulder pain, give it a try.

I got this tip from my old man (former state bench press record holder). It is a shame he figured this little tip too late in life. He has chronic shoulder problems. Peace.

 

[Flavor]

I'd suggest specifically working your rotator cuff muscles, as well as stretching them regularly.

 

[CosmosM3]

Good idea on the neutral grip. My shoulders bug me too so I only use DB's for chest and shoulder exersises. Think I'll give the new grip it a try...

How much less weight do you use? Like 15% or so??

 

[Supa Freek 420]

I'd suggest specifically working your rotator cuff muscles, as well as stretching them regularly.

This has worked well for me.