Overhead Stretch for the Shoulders

Overhead Stretch for the Shoulders

Overhead stretch for the shoulders
  • Standing about an arm's length away, grasp on to a solid surface, such as a countertop, a doorknob, or the back of a sturdy chair.
  • With your knees slightly bent, bend forward with your arms straight, lowering your upper body and letting your shoulders stretch.
  • As your shoulders are able to stretch farther, you may need to take a step or two backward.
  • Hold for at least 15 to 30 seconds then stand up and relax. If you had stepped back during your stretch, step forward so you can keep your hands on the solid surface.
  • Repeat 2 to 4 times.

Current as of: February 27, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
William H. Blahd Jr. MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Brian D. O'Brien MD - Internal Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Timothy Bhattacharyya MD - Orthopaedic Surgery, Orthopaedic Trauma