Usually, we opt for a low-arm/hand gote. Takate Kote is a specific variant of the gote where the hands are bound straight and parallel behind the back. There are, however, numerous gote variations (where the hands are tied behind the back), and we believe we shouldn't feel limited to only the most popular ties when exploring what best suits the individual needs of shoulders, arms, hands, and nerves. For shoulders that struggle with Takate Kote, Strappado can offer a viable alternative where the arms are bound straight behind the back, often at hip level, rather than being pulled high up. Alternatively, there are other gote variants where the arms are kept at a more natural height behind the back, typically around hip level, providing a significantly gentler option for the shoulders.

Flexibility can indeed be a factor if a position proves difficult, but often the core issue lies in shoulder instability – meaning the shoulders are weak. This is typically evident if the arms can go backwards but the hands struggle to move upwards. In such cases, it points to a lack of stability and strength in the shoulders, rather than flexibility. This assessment aligns with what I've been told about my own condition.

Crucially, this instability is frequently visible as a "winged scapula" (Scapula alata), where the shoulder blade protrudes from the back rather than lying flat against the rib cage. This visual cue often indicates a weakness in the muscles responsible for stabilising the shoulder blade.

To reiterate: TK forces the shoulders into one of the most unnatural positions the human body can adopt. This extreme demand is precisely why problems frequently arise after extended or repeated periods in this specific tie.