Brachial Plexus Range Of Motion Exercises

The Mayo Clinic defines the brachial plexus as a network of nerves that originates from the spinal cord and controls movements and sensation for the shoulders, arms and hands. When nerve damage occurs, range of motion exercises are necessary to avoid soft tissue scarring and adhesions.

Wrist

Stabilize the forearm and gently move the hand through complete range of motion. Holding each motion for a minimum of 10 seconds will allow your muscles the optimal opportunity to stretch. Bend your palm toward your forearm into a flexed position. Move the wrist in the opposite direction, extending the back of your hand toward your forearm. Stretch toward your thumb, then back toward your little finger.

Elbow

Stabilize your upper arm to move your elbow through all ranges. Bend your hand toward your upper arm, moving your elbow into flexion. Straighten as far as you are able into extension. Place your forearm on a table with your hand beyond the edge and your elbow bent at 90 degrees. Rotate your hand into supination so that your palm is facing the ceiling. Rotate your hand into a pronated position with your palm facing the floor.

Shoulder

Begin with your arm down at your side. You may be in a supine, seated or standing position as long as you can move without restrictions. Move your arm forward and up over your head into a flexed position. Beginning with your arm at your side, move to the outside, away from your body. Continue the movement until your arm is next to your ear in a completely abducted position. Bend your elbow to an angle of 90 degrees. Stabilize your upper arm and rotate your hand and forearm away from your body into external rotation. Move your upper arm into an abducted position of 90 degrees, which is parallel to the floor if you are standing. With your elbow flexed at 90 degrees, rotate your hand inward into internal rotation. Extend your arm behind your body for shoulder extension.

Neck

While looking straight ahead, lean your right ear toward your right shoulder and stretch. Repeat to the left side. Lean your head back and look up toward the ceiling.
Look to your right, attempting to line your chin up with your right shoulder. Repeat this rotation to the left side.