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Stretches to Ease Shoulder Aches and Fatigue

The following exercises should cause you to feel a gentle stretch, but no pain.

Shoulder stretch

Picture of shoulder stretch to ease shoulder aches and fatigue
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  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Hold for 15 to 30 seconds.
  4. Repeat 2 to 4 times with each arm.

Shoulder and chest stretch

Picture of shoulder and chest stretch to ease shoulder aches and fatigue
slide 2 of 3
    
  1. While sitting, relax your upper body so you slump slightly in your chair.
  2. As you breathe in, straighten your back and open your arms out to the sides.
  3. Gently pull your shoulder blades back and downward.
  4. Hold for 15 to 30 seconds as you breathe normally.
  5. Repeat 2 to 4 times.

Overhead stretch

Picture of overhead stretch to ease shoulder aches and fatigue
slide 3 of 3
    
  1. Reach up over your head with both arms.
  2. Hold for 15 to 30 seconds.
  3. Repeat 2 to 4 times.
By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer William S. Marras, PhD, CPE - Ergonomics
Last Revised May 31, 2011

Last Revised: May 31, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine & William S. Marras, PhD, CPE - Ergonomics

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