Infraspinatus Release Techniques | 5 Of The Best Solutions
The infraspinatus is the most associated muscle to the “rotator cuff” of the shoulder. The infraspinatus muscle is located on the backside of the shoulder blade. It helps rotate the arm and shoulder, and can be a source of pain.
This muscle has a crucial role in shoulder stabilization along with the teres major and subscapularis, and is related to injury and important to address in all shoulder pathologies.
In this post, we’ll cover the top infraspinatus release techniques along with common trigger points.
Infraspinatus Muscle – Origin, Insertion & Function – Human Anatomy
Infraspinatus Muscle
Origin: Infraspinous fossa of scapula
Insertion: Greater tubercle of humerus
Function/s: Shoulder joint: Arm external rotation;
Stabilizes humeral head in glenoid cavity
Functional action: Decelerate internal rotation and adduction of the humerus
Innervation: Suprascapular nerve
Infraspinatus Trigger Points
The infraspinatus often harbors very sensitive trigger points can be found especially on the lower portion of the shoulder blade that refer to the front of the shoulder, and can mimic the pain region often described on evaluation.
This is a potential contributing factor to shoulder pain.
Infraspinatus trigger points can be de-sensitized by a number of neuromuscular techniques, ranging from static compression, to spray-and-stretch, and also muscle energy techniques applied to the rotator cuff muscles.
How To Stretch Your Infraspinatus Muscles
Stretching the infraspinatus can be difficult to do, especially if the shoulder already has increased range of motion. Stretches should only be utilized if they do not add additional stress to the shoulder capsule and no underlying rotator cuff pathology exists.
Massage techniques and “pin and stretch” may be more directly impactful on this muscle to reduce shoulder pain.
Infraspinatus Massage Technique
Tennis Ball Self Myofascial Release For Infraspinatus
Conclusion:
If you’re dealing with shoulder pain, it’s important to consult a doctor to rule out any serious underlying issues. But with these simple techniques, you can start to release the infraspinatus and get relief from your shoulder pain. Additionally be sure to support your rotator cuff with back and shoulder exercises to build overall strength.
Sam Visnic
I’ve spent my life studying the fundamental aspects of human health with a focus on movement and clinical massage therapy. In a world of specialists, surgical procedures, drugs and quick fix remedies, I’m committed to finding and developing strategies that help people stuck at the “gap”. Over the last 20 years I’ve studied dozens of systems and methodologies for uncovering the root cause of aches and pains, along with postural and movement issues. Pain science, the art and science of hands-on soft tissue massage techniques, myofascial release, and coaching movement is essential in my practice. Integrating different methods but above all deciphering WHEN to use different techniques with different people and situations, along with integration of movements that people want to be able to do again is the key to long term success with my incredible track record with clients. Understanding the various elements that contribute to conditions and the power of communication and education makes my Release Muscle Therapy program separate from other hands-on therapy approaches.
