Dismiss Modal

Management

Isotonic Shoulder Abduction (Strength)

Choose a preferred language
  1. Stand up straight with your feet slightly apart, holding a hand weight in each hand. Your healthcare provider will tell you what size hand weights to use. Hold your arms down at your sides.

  2. Slowly raise your arms up and out to the side until the weights are at shoulder level. Then slowly lower your arms back down. Repeat 5 times, or as instructed.

  3. Do this exercise 3 times a day, or as instructed.

Woman doing side raise shoulder exercise with hand weights.


 

Safety tip: Don’t swing the weights quickly, or raise them above shoulder level.

Author: Wheeler, Brooke

© 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.
Man holding his knee over text

Orthopedics CTA

Find a Doctor
Related Articles
Read article
Orthopedics
Back Safety: Sitting

Sitting can strain your back if you don't do it right. Learn the right moves to protect your back.

Read article
Orthopedics
The Side-Bend Stretch: A Gentle Exercise

Follow these step-by-step instructions for the side-bend stretch. This exercise stretches and strengthens the intercostal muscles, which help support the ribs.

Read article
Orthopedics
Using Crutches: Up and Down Steps

When climbing up and down steps using crutches, remember this rule: Up with the good (unaffected leg) and down with the bad (affected leg). Read on for helpful tips and illustrations.

Read article
Orthopedics
Increasing Your Knee’s Range of Motion

Swelling, tight muscles, or scar tissue may make it hard to move your knee. Work with your physical therapist to increase your knee’s range of motion. Here are treatments that may be used.