A group of interconnected nerves linking the neck to arm function and sensation comprise the brachial plexus. Injury to the brachial plexus results in weakness, numbness and shooting, shocking sensations down the arm. As injuries become more severe, you may lose function of fingers, arm strength and dexterity, coupled with severe pain. Bilateral exercises and activities help prevent and rehabilitate brachial plexus injuries. Always consult your doctor prior to starting an exercise regimen.
Isometric Neck Flexion
Isometric exercises create resistance against the desired muscle group without putting the muscles through any long motion. Isometric neck flexion is done by sitting upright in a chair with your chin parallel to the ground. Push your hand against the forehead while resisting with your neck muscles, holding for three seconds at a time. Repeat three sets of five repetitions and then do the same with your hand against the left side of your head followed by the right. Most brachial plexus injuries are the result of extensive stretching to the area beyond what the nerves can handle, thus the isometric neck flexion strengthens surrounding support muscles on both sides of the neck, protecting the nerves without risking additional damage.
Shoulder Rolls
At first glance, a should roll appears to work the shoulder itself, loosening the muscles in the shoulder joint. Its true function is to create mobility in the root of the neck at the cervico-dorsal junction, according to The Pain Clinic. This bilateral exercise is done anyway, sitting or standing. Allow your arms to dangle along the side of your body. Bring the shoulders up in unison and draw imaginary circles with the top of the shoulder. The larger the circle, the more mobility you create. Rotate shoulders forward for one to two minutes, then rotate them backwards for the same duration. The mobility in the neck elongates the muscles, which may be impairing brachial plexus nerve pathways.
Neck Rotation
Range-of-motion exercises help newborns, toddlers and those suffering from brachial plexus injuries to recover as discussed by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Sit or stand upright with your head level and eyes looking forward. Turn your head to ht right as if looking over your should as far as you can go. Repeat on the left side. Exhale as you turn, repeating the movement two to four times on each side. You may add resistance to this as well, making it an isometric exercise to convert the movement from a stretch to a strengthening exercise. When performing neck rotations, it is imperative to not push beyond a level of pain in any one direction, especially if you are recovering from an injury. The pain can indicate further stretching and possible tearing of the nerves.
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