Stretches to ease shoulder aches and fatigue
The following exercises should cause you to feel a gentle stretch, but no pain.
Shoulder stretch
slide 1 of 3
slide 1 of 3, Shoulder stretch,
- Stand in a doorway and place one arm against the door frame, as shown in the picture. Your elbow should be a little higher than your shoulder.
- Relax your shoulders as you lean forward, allowing your chest and shoulder muscles to stretch. You can also turn your body slightly away from your arm to stretch the muscles even more.
- Hold for 15 to 30 seconds.
- Repeat 2 to 4 times with each arm.
Shoulder and chest stretch
slide 2 of 3
slide 2 of 3, Shoulder and chest stretch,
- While sitting, relax your upper body so you slump slightly in your chair.
- As you breathe in, straighten your back and open your arms out to the sides.
- Gently pull your shoulder blades back and downward.
- Hold for 15 to 30 seconds as you breathe normally.
- Repeat 2 to 4 times.
Overhead stretch
slide 3 of 3
slide 3 of 3, Overhead stretch,
- Reach up over your head with both arms.
- Hold for 15 to 30 seconds.
- Repeat 2 to 4 times.
Current as of: July 18, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board: All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.