EXERCISE OF THE WEEK - Scapular Isometric

This is a great scapular exercise.

- Take an elastic band of sufficient strength and hold it in both hands palm up.
- Keep the elbows pinned to the side of the body.
- While keeping the shoulders depressed, contract the scapula and externally rotate both arms away.
- Hold the position for 5-10 seconds. Slowly return hands back to starting position.
- Repeat 10-15 times

Featured Physician of the Month - Dr. Greg Poulter

At Ascent Physical Therapy, we know how lucky we are to have such talented medical professionals in the Vail Valley. We welcome and encourage collaboration and would like to recognize this month's featured physician, Dr. Greg Poulter. Take a moment to read about Dr. Poulter's contribution to the Valley's healthcare system and his commitment to your health...

GREG POULTER, MD

Specialty: Comprehensive Spine Care & Surgery

Greg Poulter, M.D. joined Vail • Summit Orthopaedics in the summer of 2008. Dr. Poulter completed his orthopaedic surgery residency at the University of Michigan and more recently, a fellowship in adult and pediatric spine surgery at the University of California San Francisco. He provides complete spine care for both children and adults, offering the most current minimally-invasive and fusion-sparing techniques.

Dr. Poulter says the active lifestyle of people living in the Colorado Mountains is part of what attracted him to the job. "People who love the outdoors are the best patients to take care of; they are truly vested in getting better so they can get right back out there doing whatever it is they like to do," Poulter said.

Dr. Poulter takes pride in building rapport with his patients, allowing them the time and opportunity to feel comfortable with their diagnosis and treatment plan. He provides individualized care based on the patient’s needs and lifestyle. At VSO, you are truly not just another number.

Dr. Poulter is an avid hiker and skier (formerly a ski instructor) and is excited that he can now call Colorado home. He enjoys spending time with his wife and son and looks forward to continuing to build upon his success with Vail • Summit Orthopaedics.

EXERCISE OF THE WEEK - Shoulder Blade Squeeze

Any abnormality of the shoulder blade (scapula) position can result in secondary effects on the function of the shoulder joint. For instance, if the shoulder blade tilts anteriorly and laterally, the space available for the rotator cuff may be narrowed, resulting in tendon abrasion and injury, known as shoulder impingement syndrome.

Scapular stabilization refers to a set of exercises that strengthen the shoulder girdle muscles to restore normal shoulder blade motion and position. A great exercise to perform would be the Shoulder Blade Squeeze.

(PhysioAdvisor.com)
- Stand or sit with your back straight. Chin tucked in slightly and shoulder should be back
- Slowly move your shoulder blades back and down, so they squeeze together
- Hold for 5 seconds and repeat 10 times.