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Exercises
Ask your doctor when you may start these exercises. These exercises should be done 2-3 times a day, 5-10 times each.
Ball Squeeze
Hold a ball (rubber or Nerf) in your hand. Raise your arm so that your hand is above your heart and alternately squeeze and relax your hand on the ball. This exercise can be carried out standing or lying down with the affected arm on a pillow.
Pendulum Swing
Bending over at the waist, support yourself on a table or chair with the uninvolved arm. Swing your involved arm from the shoulder (not elbow) in circles, gradually making them larger.
Chest Stretch
Bend your elbows by your sides, then try to pinch them behind your back. Keep your back straight; no leaning.
Wall Climbing
Stand close to and facing a wall. Place your palms against the wall and slowly walk your hands up the wall until you feel a pull on your incision. Return hands to shoulder level. Repeat the exercise, trying to reach higher each time. The goal is to eventually be able to extend your arms up to full length with elbows straight, arms in close to your head with the palms of your hands touching. Make sure your shoulders remain level with your trunk straight. No leaning.
Overhead Stretch
Hold a dowel or broomstick with both hands. Raise the stick up over your head, keeping your hands at the same height and elbows straight. Go as high as you can, then return to your lap. Can be done standing or lying down.
Clasp, Reach, and Spread
Clasp your hands together. Slowly raise them toward your forehead. If you start to feel pain and/or pulling at your incision, stop and hold the position. Breathe deeply until the pulling stops. Then continue until your hands are resting on your head. Progress to clasping your hands behind your neck with your head erect.
Spread your elbows apart, remembering to stop and breathe when pulling or pain occurs. Bring elbows together in front. Return arms to sides.
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