Corrective Exercise Toolkit

Shoulder GIRD

Glenohumeral internal rotation deficit (GIRD) is a loss of internal rotation commonly seen in overhead athletes.

Shoulder - Mobility

Biomechanical Mechanism

Posterior capsule tightness, rotator cuff stiffness, and bony adaptation can reduce IR and increase impingement or labral stress.

Clinical Rationale

GIRD increases risk of labral injury and impingement. Addressing posterior capsule and cuff stiffness improves mechanics.

Practical Solution

Restore IR and total arc while maintaining scapular control. Use caution with aggressive stretching in acute pain.

Common Compensations

Progression

  1. 1Level 1: Low-load IR mobility
  2. 2Level 2: Posterior capsule soft tissue
  3. 3Level 3: Rotator cuff strengthening
  4. 4Level 4: Throwing integration

Regression

  • Reduce ROM
  • Avoid painful end ranges
  • Use gentle mobilizations

Red Flags

Differential Diagnosis

SLAP lesionPosterior capsule contractureImpingement
Related Assessments
shoulder ir 90 assessmentsleeper stretch test assessment
Related Exercises
sleeper stretchposterior shoulder ballthoracic extension foam rollerdoorway pec stretchshoulder ir 90 stretchcross body stretch

Evidence

Level: moderate

Stretching interventions can improve shoulder ROM in overhead athletes with GIRD; evidence supports ROM gains but varies by protocol.

Role of stretching interventions in enhancing the shoulder range of motion in overhead athletes with glenohumeral internal rotation deficit: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

systematic review/meta-analysis View source

Glenohumeral Internal Rotation Deficit and Risk of Upper Extremity Injury in Overhead Athletes: Systematic Review.

systematic review View source

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