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.

Make an Appointment

Make an Appointment

Find a Doctor

Find a Doctor

Find a Location

Find a Location

Related Services

Orthopedics Center

Related Articles
Read article
Orthopedics
Sprained Ankles Need Attention

When you sprain an ankle, one or more ligaments on the outside of your ankle become stretched or torn.

Read article
Orthopedics
The Bridge Exercise

The bridge is often performed as part of a yoga or Pilates class. It strengthens the abdominal core, buttocks, and hamstrings.

Read article
Orthopedics
Tips After Knee Surgery

Follow these tips during your recovery after knee surgery.

Read article
Orthopedics
After Leg Amputation: Keeping Your Other Leg Healthy

If you have a leg amputated, it's important to take steps to care for your other leg.