Stick-Assisted Shoulder Flexion
Improve Shoulder Mobility with Stick-Assisted Shoulder Flexion
Stick-Assisted Shoulder Flexion is a gentle range-of-motion exercise that helps improve shoulder flexibility, reduce stiffness, and restore comfortable overhead movement. Using your unaffected arm to assist the movement allows your shoulder to move safely without excessive strain.
What This Exercise Helps
Improve shoulder mobility
Reduce shoulder stiffness
Restore overhead movement
Support recovery from frozen shoulder
Assist rehabilitation after rotator cuff injuries
Improve flexibility following shoulder surgery (when approved by your healthcare provider)
Equipment Needed
Stick, broomstick, wooden dowel, PVC pipe, or cane
Starting Position
Lie comfortably on your back with your knees bent.
Hold the stick with both hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
Keep your elbows straight and shoulders relaxed.
How to Perform the Exercise
Hold the stick with both hands.
Use your unaffected arm to gently guide the stick overhead.
Allow your affected arm to move comfortably with the assistance of the stick.
Raise your arms until you feel a gentle stretch.
Hold the stretch for 3–5 seconds.
Slowly return to the starting position.
Repeat using slow, controlled movements.
Repetitions
10 repetitions
1–3 sets
Perform 1–2 times daily, or as recommended by your healthcare provider.
Tips
Move slowly and smoothly.
Keep your shoulders relaxed.
Only move into a comfortable stretch.
Let your stronger arm assist the movement.
Breathe normally throughout the exercise.
Common Mistakes
Forcing through pain
Moving too quickly
Shrugging the shoulders
Arching the lower back
Holding your breath
Stop If
Stop the exercise and consult your healthcare provider if you experience:
Sharp or severe pain
Increasing shoulder pain after exercise
Numbness or tingling
Dizziness
Sudden loss of arm strength
Related Conditions
Frozen Shoulder
Rotator Cuff Injury
Shoulder Impingement
Shoulder Stiffness
Post-Surgical Shoulder Rehabilitation
Related Services
Need More Help?
If shoulder pain or stiffness is limiting your daily activities, our team at Pelham Massage Therapy & Osteopathy Cliniccan assess your condition and develop a personalized treatment plan to help restore comfortable shoulder movement and improve function.
Disclaimer
This exercise is provided for educational purposes only and may not be appropriate for every individual or condition. Stop the exercise if it causes severe pain, numbness, tingling, dizziness, or any other concerning symptoms. If you are unsure whether this exercise is appropriate for you, consult a qualified healthcare professional before beginning. Always follow the advice of your healthcare provider regarding your specific condition. If your symptoms persist or worsen, book an assessment with Pelham Massage Therapy & Osteopathy Clinic.