Management

Shoulder Flexion (Flexibility)

Choose a preferred language
  1. Sit in a chair sideways next to a table. Lay your right arm on the table, pointed forward.

  2. Slowly lean forward. Slide your arm forward on the table. Feel the stretch in your right shoulder.

  3. Hold for 5 seconds. Slowly sit back up.

  4. Repeat 5 times.

  5. Switch sides and repeat, if instructed.

  6. Repeat this exercise 3 times a day, or as instructed.


Safety tips

  • Stop right away if you feel any pain. Slight discomfort is normal, but you shouldn’t feel sharp pain while you’re doing these exercises or stretches.

  • Remember to breathe. Breathing well may also help you do an exercise or stretch for longer.

  • Start slowly. If you’re new to working out or doing shoulder exercises, don’t try to do too much too soon. Start with just a few exercises and stretches at first, then add more as you build your strength.

  • Check with your health care provider or physical therapist. If you’ve had shoulder surgery, an injury, or a lot of shoulder pain, it’s important to check with your provider or physical therapist before doing shoulder mobility exercises and stretches.

Author: Wheeler, Brooke

Author: Yang, Sue

Online Medical Reviewer: Lalitha Kadali

Online Medical Reviewer: Stacey Wojcik MBA BSN RN

Online Medical Reviewer: Trina Bellendir PT

Date Last Reviewed: 01/01/2025

© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.

Find a Provider

View Our Directory

Find a Location

View Our Practices
Related Articles
Read article
Orthopedics
After Total Hip Replacement: Returning to Activity

After a total hip replacement, you'll continue to recover at home and find yourself returning to your daily routine. The key to becoming active again is to stick with your recovery program. Read more for tips on getting back to an active lifestyle.

Read article
Orthopedics
Shoulder Internal Rotation, Isometric (Strength)

Follow these step-by-step instructions.

Read article
Orthopedics
Back Safety: Bending

Here are tips on how to move safely and protect your back when you need to bend.

Read article
Orthopedics
Back Safety: Pushing and Pulling

Pushing can be hard on your back, but pulling can be even harder. So, push rather than pull when you can.