Cross-Body Shoulder Stretch

A simple stretch for the back and outside of the shoulder.

Cross-Body Shoulder Stretch exercise illustration

What it helps

Stretches the back and outer shoulder, easing tightness that limits reaching across the body.

How to do it

  1. Bring the affected arm straight across the front of your body at about chest height.
  2. Use your other hand to gently draw it closer across your chest until you feel a comfortable stretch in the back of the shoulder.
  3. Hold, then release.

Tips

  • Keep your shoulder down and relaxed — don't shrug it up.
  • Gentle and steady.

Commonly done as 3 sets of Hold 20–30 sec, daily.

Where this appears in recovery

Cross-Body Shoulder Stretch is part of 2 recovery programs, typically in the phase 2 stage. Each program shows how it fits alongside the other movements:

All exercise guides · Condition guides · Recovery education

These are general exercise guides, not a personal prescription. The repetitions and frequency shown are what's commonly used — your own surgeon or therapist may advise something different, and their guidance comes first.