shoulder pains...

[NapoleanComplex]

I seemed to have injured my shoulder about 2 wks ago. It only bothers me on flat bench. I can do incline bench fine...no pain. Its on the flat bench...when I bring the bar all the way to my chest, that the pain occurs. I've been doing the 5x5 program, and can't seem to get past 225lbs. I am scared to continue the progression because I don't want to hurt myself rendering my shoulder worthless...

Do you think I am a candidate for some time off from the flat bench, and rotator cuff work?

Karma for help...thanx

 

[louden_swain]

Please describe the pain. . where is it? Is it sharp?

 

[PolishHammer1977]

Sounds to me like you need to rest and rehab a little. This is just based on the minimal info you have provided.

 

[erickthegreat11]

pain is caused by a weakness. Find the weakness. Go narrow, do dips, whatever. I've had the same thing happen, then I found the weakness, pain stopped.

 

[NapoleanComplex]

its a sharp pain, in my left shoulder, feels like its in the joint... I don't think its my form, I always stress for good form.

 

[lodid]

I'm willing to bet it's rotator cuff.

I've been nursing mine back to health for about 2 months.

Sucks, nothing you can do but let it heal. If it hurts don't lift.

I've gone with pec decks and narrow grip flat bench.

 

[Liftbig]

do you tuck your elbows when you bench? where do you bring the bar down.

 

[lodid]

do you tuck your elbows when you bench?

Yes, that is a must. Otherwise it hurts.

 

[slobberknocker]

1. Tuck your elbows in

2. Play around with your hand spacing (you may be too wide, or too narrow)

3. If you do any behind the neck exercises, stop them

 

[NapoleanComplex]

When you say tuck your elbows, do you mean bring them in towards me when lowering the weight? Any links to some picture examples?