There are many different exercises that can be beneficial after a shoulder surgical procedure. In this article, we are going to dive into two great post-op shoulder surgery exercises: pulley elevation, and flexion, abduction, and scaption.
Pulley Placement
The placement of the pulley is more important than you might think. The pulley must be at least one foot higher than the extended reach of the fingertips of the normal arm. Stand directly under the pulley.
Use the pulley as demonstrated by your doctor or physical therapist. Grasping a handle in each hand, use the power of your normal arm to elevate the stiff one. You can go slowly and elevate up on your toes, if you need to, as long as you continue to reach for the pulley with your hand.
Flexion, Abduction and Scaption to 90 Degrees without Upper Trapezius Substitution
Begin this exercise by pinching your shoulder blades together. Next raise your arm up 90 degrees or parallel to the floor without using any momentum from your body or by substituting muscle patterns.
The next variation of the exercise is raising your arm straight out to the side as seen in the 2nd picture. Again, focusing on not using momentum or muscle substitutions and only raising your arm to shoulder level. The final variation is at a 45 degree angle from your side into a direction known as scaption.
This information is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition.
