Active Range Of Motion Shoulder

Active Range of Motion Shoulder exercises help maintain and restore normal shoulder movement patterns through patient-controlled movements. These exercises are essential for preventing stiffness and promoting healing after shoulder injuries or periods of immobilization.

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Category: physical_therapy
Level: beginner
Mechanic: compound
Equipment: body only

Instructions

Stand or sit comfortably with your arms relaxed at your sides.
Slowly raise your affected arm forward and up overhead as high as comfortable (flexion).
Lower the arm and then raise it out to the side and overhead (abduction).
Bring your arm across your body toward the opposite shoulder (adduction).
Reach behind your back as if trying to touch your opposite shoulder blade (internal rotation).
Complete each movement slowly and within your pain-free range of motion.

Tips

Move slowly and deliberately, focusing on smooth, controlled movements.
Stop at the first sign of pain and work only within your comfortable range.
Perform each direction multiple times throughout the day for best results.
Keep your shoulders relaxed and avoid hiking your shoulder up toward your ear.

Common mistakes

Moving too quickly through the range of motion without proper control.
Pushing through pain instead of respecting comfortable movement limits.
Compensating with other body parts instead of focusing on isolated shoulder movement.

Safety

Should be performed within pain-free range only. Those with acute shoulder injuries, recent surgery, or severe impingement should follow specific medical guidance. Stop immediately if sharp pain occurs.

Variations

Passive Range Of Motion Shoulder
Assisted Range Of Motion Shoulder
Pendulum Swings
Wall Angels
Cross Body Arm Swings