Prone Horizontal Abduction with Gripping

Shoulder movements involve a coordinated rhythm between the scapula, more commonly known as the shoulder blade, on the chest wall as well as the shoulder joint and is often called scapulohumeral rhythm. The shoulder blade functions as a stable foundation for a kinetic chain to allow for the transfer of energy from the lower extremities and trunk to the upper extremity into the arm and hand. An abnormality of movement between the scapula and shoulder can occur due to a weak link in the chain resulting in compensation as well as ineffective energy transfer placing added stress on the tissue surrounding the shoulder joint. This exercise is often used to help improve both scapulohumeral rhythm and stabilization of the scapula.