Benching: Flat or incline for sensitive shoulders

[jg42058p]

Hi,

I have a partial dislocation of my left shoulder. No visible evidence of a tear on the MRI, but the diagnosis was internal instability.
I am in physical therapy now, short term (4 weeks) to increase internal strength.

Doctor said I can keep lifting and doing bench press as well. Keeping it light though.

I was wondering, which is more stressful on the shoulders - incline bench press or flat bench press?

If incline benching is very stressful on my shoulders I will probably just avoid it completely. I want my chest to be toned, and I don't plan on doing heavy weight at low reps.

[-Ender-]

You will have to work through the injury and see what works for you. the shoulder plays part in so many movements, it is impossible to tell what will work and what won't. Your body will tell you, be sure to listen.

I spent the better part of a year staying clear of flat bench because of a shoulder problem. During this time I was able to incline only until things healed.

Good luck

[Donman1001]

Incline is more stressful on the shoulders but like Ender said depending on whats injured either flat or incline could irritate it more.

[falco21]

Just finished rehabbing for torn rotator cuff and labrum and Incline Press feels ten times more comfortable than flat. But that's just me

[BigBuck6]

Depending on your specific biomechanics and physiology, the answer will vary. I personally have torn both rotator cuffs/labrums and incline like it's my job but the flat bench creates a shearing force so I cannot go heavy without pain. Experiment for yourself and see what work for you.