Pendulum swing exercises are often recommended following any type of shoulder surgery but especially after rotator cuff surgery. You can perform pendulum swing exercises in a variety of ways, all which offer benefits. The rotator cuff is found in the shoulder and is made up of tendons and muscles that hold the upper arm in the shoulder socket and the upper portion of the shoulder blade, according to the Mayo Clinic. Pendulum exercises offer pain relief, relax the joint and increase mobility and range of motion.
Lying Down Pendulum
Lay on your stomach on the edge of your bed or table so that the arm of the injured side hangs free, fingers either barely touching the floor or not at all. Keep the fingers pointed toward the floor and gently push the injured arm in a forward motion, toward your head, imagining your hand making the bottom curve of an arc. Then allow the arm to return to its starting position, but continue the swing toward the hip. Swing the arm slowly in this forward and backward arcing movement to between 15 and 40 degrees, suggests the Nicholas Institute of Sports. Start with small movements and work your way up to larger movements as you grow stronger.
Free-Standing Pendulum
Stand with your feet shoulder distance apart. Lean forward, placing the non-injured arm against a table or wall for support. Allow the injured arm to hang free, fingers pointing toward the floor. Move the hand in small counter-clockwise circles several times, then switch direction and rotate the hand in a clockwise direction, suggests Nucleus Medical Media. This helps provide range of motion in the shoulder joint and gradually re-strengthens the joint.
Forward and Backward Swing
Stand with your feet a little wider than shoulder distance apart. Lean forward and place the non-injured arm against a table so that your injured side is away from the wall. Stand far enough away from any objects so you don't hit them while performing this exercise. You should be slightly bent forward. Allow the injured arm to hand free, fingers pointing toward the floor. Slowly swing the arm forward, only as far as you can go without causing pain. Pause and then allow the arm to return to its starting position, then continue toward the rear . Repeat this exercise sequence following your therapist's instructions in regard to repetitions.
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