Exercises For An Anterior Shoulder Dislocation

Anterior shoulder dislocation is a common injury in contact sports and occurs when the head of the humerus is forced forward or out of the joint, while the arm is externally rotated and held to the side. Your doctor or physical therapist will recommend exercises that strengthen the shoulders, and increase your range of motion and shoulder stability.

External Rotation

Scott Orthopedic Center in Huntington, West Virginia recommends external rotation exercises during the first phase of rehabilitation. External rotation exercises increase the range of motion in your shoulders and should be performed with a rubber tubing. Begin by lying on your back with the injured arm positioned at your side and your elbow bent to 90 degrees. Rotate your shoulder to raise your lower arm and the rubber tubing. You may also rotate the shoulder so that your arm moves backward and forward.

Shoulder Shrugs

Strengthen the muscles in your shoulders and increase your range of motion by performing shoulder shrugs. Perform this stretch by keeping your neck still and only moving your shoulders. Roll your shoulders in a circular motion while lifting your shoulder toward to your ear. Perform 10 forward, circular shrugs and 10 backward circular shrugs.

Pendulum

This exercise increases the flexibility and range of motion in the dislocated shoulder. Lean forward and place your unaffected arm on a bench or chair for support. Straighten your back and begin to swing your affected arm loosely from your shoulder. Perform a forward and backward movement, extending your arm as far as possible.

Flexion and Extension

Flexion and extension exercises increase mobility and range of motion in your shoulders. Begin by lying on your back or sitting in a chair. Grasp your injured shoulder with your unaffected hand and gently bring both arms toward your head. Continue this extension as far as you can; however, do not overexert your shoulder and stop when you feel the stretch.