Management

Shoulder Abduction (Flexibility)

Choose a preferred language
  1. Stand up straight or lie on your back on the floor with your legs straight. Hold a broomstick horizontally. Cup the top of the broomstick with your right hand. Hold the broomstick just above the broom part with your left hand, palm facing down.

  2. Push the broomstick to the right with your left hand, raising your right arm up. Raise it only as high as feels comfortable.

  3. Hold for a few seconds. Return to the starting position.

  4. Repeat 3 to 5 times, or as instructed. Build up to holding each stretch for 10 to 30 seconds.

  5. Switch sides and repeat if instructed.

Woman doing broom stretch shoulder exercise.


 

Tip: If you don’t have a broom, you can also do this exercise with a cane, mop, or yardstick.

Author: Wheeler, Brooke

Online Medical Reviewer: Raymond Turley Jr PA-C

Online Medical Reviewer: Stacey Wojcik MBA BSN RN

Online Medical Reviewer: Thomas N Joseph MD

Date Last Reviewed: 04/01/2025

© 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.

Start your journey toward better health

Select a primary care physician who will deliver personal care, close to home.

Find a Doctor

We have more than 4,500 specialty care physicians in our network

We have you covered from head (neurosurgery) to toe (podiatry.) And everything in-between!

Find a Doctor

Need Help?

Get the right care at the right time.

Learn More
Related Articles
Read article
Orthopedics
Back Safety: Pushing and Pulling

Pushing can be hard on your back, but pulling can be even harder. So, push rather than pull when you can.

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
Shoulder Abduction (Strength)

Follow the step-by-step directions for this shoulder exercise.

Read article
Orthopedics
Dorsiflexion/Plantarflexion (Flexibility)

This exercise will help keep your ankle flexible.