Top 10 Shoulder Pain Exercises to Try in 2025

Key Highlights

Introduction

Shoulder pain can get in the way of your daily activities at any time. It is not strange to feel discomfort when the shoulder joint gets worn out from lifting things or sitting in an uncomfortable position. These aches may make you think whether exercising is a good idea or not. But with a well-guided routine, you can feel better. This will make your shoulders stronger and improve your range of motion. You can use simple exercises made to support the part that hurts, and with that, you can deal with pain and take back movement without much trouble.

Top 10 shoulder pain exercises to try in 2025

Managing shoulder pain doesn’t have to be hard. You can try these simple exercises for some relief. They help your range of motion and make your shoulder joint stronger. These will also give you more flexibility and help stop new injuries.

 

These moves include both stretches and easy strengthening steps. You use them for different shoulder muscles and your upper back. So, you get help for discomfort and improve your posture. The best thing is that you can use them every day. You can adjust them if your shoulder impingement or stiffness is better or worse that day.

1. Pendulum Stretch

The Pendulum Stretch is a gentle and straightforward way to help your affected arm heal. You do not have to lift anything heavy. To start, lean forward. Put one of your hands on a table or counter for support. Let the other arm hang down.

 

First, swing your arm forward and backward. Next, move it from side to side. Then, make a small circular motion with your arm. Use gentle pressure to make those circles a bit bigger slowly. This helps your shoulder joint stay flexible. It also lets your shoulder muscles work without much strain.

 

While you do these moves, pay attention to your posture. Do not lock your knees. Do not round your back. When you feel good in the starting position, make the circles larger. This will give you a better stretch. The Pendulum Stretch can help with healing, improve your range of motion, and not cause pain or discomfort.

2. Cross-Body Shoulder Stretch

The Cross-Body Shoulder Stretch is a good way to help ease tension. You start by grabbing your affected arm with your other, unaffected arm. Use your left hand to pull your injured arm gently across your chest.

 

To get more control, hold the stretch at your elbow and not close to your shoulder blades. Stay in this position for about 20 to 30 seconds. Then let go and switch so you do the same stretch for your right shoulder. This shoulder stretch helps make your upper back more flexible.

 

While you do this, keep your posture relaxed and avoid putting too much pressure on your shoulder joint. The shoulder stretch is a good tool to use if you feel stiff at the end of the day. You can also add the shoulder stretch to your warm-up to help with any discomfort. Over time, it can make your motion better and keep your upper back and shoulders feeling good.

3. Shoulder Blade Squeeze

Improve your upper back strength and help your posture with the Shoulder Blade Squeeze exercise. Stand or sit up straight with your arms relaxed at your sides. Squeeze your shoulder blades together, like you are trying to hold a pencil between them.

 

For the best results, hold the squeeze for 5 to 10 seconds before you relax. This move works the muscles around the shoulder blades, which are important for your shoulder joint health. Do this exercise 10 to 12 reps for the most benefit.

 

To make this exercise even better, add an exercise band for extra resistance. Hold the band in both hands and do the same squeezing motion. The band helps your muscles work harder and offers more support for your posture. Adding this stretch to your routine regularly can help with stiffness and improve your range of motion.

4. Doorway Stretch

For tension relief and better flexibility, try the Doorway Stretch. This stretch works on the front of your body and shoulder muscles. To start, stand facing a doorway. Put the palms of your hands on the sides of the door frame. Bend your elbows so they form a right angle for the best position.

 

Step forward gently with one foot. Lean into the stretch a little until you feel some pressure in your chest and shoulder muscles. Hold the stretch for 20 to 30 seconds. Go back to the starting position. Do the stretch on both sides.

 

This exercise helps stretch your body and also strengthens your core. It is suitable for tightness that comes from sitting for long periods or having bad posture. Add it to your routine to stay flexible and stop upper body stiffness. When you use the correct technique, you stay safe and lower the chance of shoulder impingement.

5. Wall Angels

Wall Angels are a great way to help with posture and work on external rotation. They also make your upper back and shoulder muscles more flexible. To do this, put your lower back on the wall and keep your feet slightly forward. Start with your arms bent like a goalpost. Keep your shoulder blades tight against the wall.

 

Raise your arms slowly and steadily, reaching up toward the ceiling. Keep your arms and back close to the wall. Try not to arch your lower back at any time. After you raise your arms, move them back down to the starting spot in the same controlled way.

 

Do 10 to 12 reps of this move, taking it slow every time. Wall Angels are good for helping with stiffness around your shoulder blades. They help set your upper body in a better line and can relax tight spots. This stretch is a good way to fix tension and help your muscles work with each other.

6. Neck Release

Neck Release is a simple stretch that uses gentle pressure to help with discomfort in the shoulder area. When you start, lower your chin to your chest. You will feel a stretch going down the back of your neck.

 

Next, turn your head gently to the right side. Put light pressure with your right hand. Hold this stretch for 20 to 30 seconds. Make sure to take deep breaths as you do this. Switch sides to stretch both neck muscles evenly.

 

Keep your body in the proper posture as you do this. This stretching exercise is suitable for people who have neck or shoulder soreness due to stiffness or poor posture. Doing it often will help you relax more and keep your neck moving well, and it will not cause any discomfort.

7. Arm Circles

Arm Circles help you improve your shoulder height flexibility and increase your range of motion. Stand up with your arms straight out to the sides at shoulder height. Move your arms slowly in a circular motion that goes clockwise.

 

Start with small circles. Make the circles bigger as you feel more relaxed and ready. Try to keep your arms in the correct position and stay steady. Do this for 10–12 reps. Then switch to go the other way, making circles counter-clockwise, so both sides get the same benefit.

 

This easy exercise helps you strengthen your upper back muscles. It also gets your body ready for using your arms more. Since Arm Circles are simple, you can add them quickly to your workout, even when you’re short on time. Doing them often will improve your control and help increase your range of motion. These will also boost your adaptability.

8. Thread-the-Needle Stretch

The Thread-the-Needle Stretch can help with flexibility in your injured arm and upper back. Start by getting down on all fours, with your hands flat on the ground.

 

Next, slide the affected arm under your body. Move it toward a starting position under the opposite arm or your torso. Use gentle stretching exercises to open up tight spots near your shoulder. Go slow and stop if you feel any discomfort. Hold this pose for 15 to 20 seconds when you move through each stretch.

 

If you want more relief in your spine, lean your torso forward slightly. Make sure that your breathing is even. This move boosts blood to the shoulder blade and can reduce stiffness. It works well for people with upper back soreness.

9. Eagle Arms Stretch

The Eagle Arms Stretch is suitable for both internal and external movements of your shoulder blades. To start, lift your forearms up and across your chest. Cross your arms and elbows in front of you, and keep your posture straight.

 

While your arms are crossed, focus on the stretch in your shoulder area. Try to balance the feeling of tension with slow, deep breaths. Hold this stretch for 20 to 30 seconds, but stop if you feel any discomfort. You can switch sides to get a better shoulder stretch and improve your posture.

 

This is a good part of a relaxation routine. It uses ideas from yoga to help you build strength in your shoulder area and the surrounding areas.

10. Child’s Pose

Child’s Pose helps to ease tight upper back and shoulder muscles. It can give relief if you have discomfort in these areas. Sit down or kneel forward. Then, reach your biceps out in front of you and enjoy a gentle, relaxing stretch.

 

To support your triceps, keep your arms in a relaxed position. Try to hold this pose for longer as you get more comfortable. With practice, you will notice your back can arch a bit more, which also helps the triceps. This gentle approach helps to balance and connect how the triceps and back work together.

 

It’s good to include slow and easy movements that let you control any discomfort. These safe and slow stretches can fit what you need, and they can help you relax better during Child’s Pose. They help you make the most of your stretching time and promote a more relaxed feeling for your back and shoulder muscles.

Consult with top pain specialists in your city.

Tips for Performing Shoulder Pain Exercises Safely

It is very important to put safety first when trying to help shoulder discomfort. You should add different movements to your routine. This helps to reduce stiffness. It is best to follow the exercises that a physical therapist gives and stay connected to the proper steps.

 

You have to focus on slow and even recovery. Balance stretching with strengthening work for your shoulder. Give yourself enough time between each exercise. Avoid any moves that bring extra strain or pain. Stick to safe ways and avoid that discomfort. It helps to use clear steps and to pick steady and secure positions in your daily plan. This will make sure your core gets stronger, even after soreness. It also helps you keep a pain-free life and feel your best all over.

Warm-Up and Cool-Down Recommendations

A gentle warm-up is needed before you start working your shoulder muscles. It helps your shoulder area and joints get ready for any exercise. Begin with simple stretches for your shoulders. Reach your arms up over your head, and roll your shoulders back. This will help you get a greater range of motion. When you move into your workout, try using an exercise band. This can help give more support and make your shoulder area stable.

 

After your workout, a cool-down is just as important. It helps with any stiffness or discomfort in your upper body. Use deep stretches that work on the front and the back of your upper body. Move your arms in a circular motion. This lets your shoulder muscles relax after all their work.

How to Avoid Common Mistakes During Shoulder Exercises

Knowing small details about shoulder exercises can help you get better results and lower the chance of getting hurt. The way you set your shoulder height and arm position matters. Check that they line up correctly to avoid discomfort. Gently use your shoulder muscles by adding some gentle pressure while you move, for example, when you do an external rotation or a shoulder stretch. This can help improve your range of motion. Do not rush through the reps. Go slow and in control to lower the risk of muscle strains. If you keep feeling stiffness, talk to a physical therapist. They can show you how to fix your technique and adjust your approach, so you get the results you want.

 

When to See a Doctor About Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain that does not go away can get in the way of daily life. It is essential to go to see a doctor if the discomfort worsens or you notice symptoms such as swelling, bruising, or a difference in shoulder height between the two sides. An orthopedic healthcare expert will check the shoulder joint and the surrounding area to find out if there might be arthritis, bursitis, or shoulder impingement. A treatment plan made just for you by your doctor, which may include physical therapy, is often needed to help you get better.

Warning Signs That Require Medical Attention

Shoulder discomfort can make it hard to go about your day. If you have trouble moving the affected arm or you notice significant swelling near your shoulder joint, this may indicate a serious condition. Pain that will not go away, even when you rest, is also a reason to get things checked. Watch out for changes in shoulder height or if you feel you cannot breathe. These issues need quick help from a healthcare professional. It is essential to look after your health, so see someone for advice if you notice any of these problems.

How Exercise Fits Into a Broader Shoulder Pain Treatment Plan

Adding exercise to a plan for shoulder pain can help with healing and better range of motion. Doing gentle stretches and strengthening exercises may lower discomfort and improve the shoulder joint’s function. When you work with a physical therapist, they will help you choose exercises that fit your own needs. This way, you can avoid mistakes. It is good to keep the right posture. Use your unaffected arm when you need extra support for the hurt side. Taking these steps is a big part of getting better.

Conclusion

Knowing about shoulder pain and what it means is important for managing it well. The best way to get better is to have a treatment plan that fits your needs. This plan should have the right shoulder pain exercises for you. You should also get help from your healthcare team. Doing this can make your life better.

 

It is essential to listen to your body. If you feel discomfort that does not go away, tell your healthcare team. Talking with them and sharing your symptoms can help find the cause of your pain. It also helps them choose the proper care for you.

 

If you keep working at it and get the support you need, you can see progress. Your shoulder range of motion will get better. This will help your upper body work well and feel strong again.

Consult with top pain specialists in your city.

FAQs

What causes shoulder pain the most in adults?

Shoulder pain in adults often happens because people overuse their shoulders. Injuries like rotator cuff tears and conditions like arthritis also cause this pain. Poor posture can make shoulder discomfort worse. Doing the same movements repeatedly can also lead to this pain. It is important to be aware of these causes so you can prevent and manage shoulder pain well.

Exercising when you have shoulder pain can be safe if you are careful. You need to listen to your body and stop if something hurts. Try not to make the pain worse. It is a good idea to talk to a healthcare professional before you start any new exercise plan. They can help you pick the correct exercises to improve your shoulder.

To get the best results, try to do shoulder exercises at least three times a week. It is important to be consistent with your workouts. But always listen to your body and give yourself enough rest days to recover. As you get stronger, you can gradually increase the difficulty of the exercises. Make sure to have good form every time you work out.

Yes, doing shoulder exercises can help stop injuries in the future. These exercises make the muscles around your shoulder strong and improve your flexibility. When you do these moves often, your shoulder will be steadier. This means there is less chance of pulling or hurting something while you do things. It is essential to add these simple exercises to your routine. This helps keep your shoulders healthy over the long term.

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