Management

Standing External Rotation (Strength)

Choose a preferred language

These directions are for your right shoulder. Switch sides for your left shoulder.

  1. Stand with your arms at your side. Bend your arms at a 90-degree angle. Hold a stick or cane in front of you with both hands, with your palms down. Keep your upper arms close to your body.

  2. Slowly push the stick or cane to the right with your left hand. Keep holding on to the stick or cane with both hands. Keep your elbows close to your body. Feel your right shoulder stretch. Stop at the point of discomfort. Hold for 5 seconds, or as directed.

  3. Slowly move your arms back. Relax.

  4. Repeat 5 times, or as directed.

Man doing external rotation shoulder exercise with stick.

Author: Wheeler, Brooke

Online Medical Reviewer: Raymond Turley Jr PA-C

Online Medical Reviewer: Stacey Wojcik MBA BSN RN

Online Medical Reviewer: Thomas N Joseph MD

Date Last Reviewed: 04/01/2025

© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
Suitcase Icon

Learn More About Health Services at PIH Health

Expert care for every stage of life. Explore the comprehensive services offered at PIH Health.

Explore Services
Newspaper Icon

Get Health Tips & Updates

Sign up for helpful health information, wellness tips and news from PIH Health, delivered straight to your inbox.

Subscribe
Related Articles
Read article
Orthopedics
Shoulder Flexion (Strength)

Doing this exercise builds strength in your shoulders. Here are step-by-step instructions.

Read article
Orthopedics
Supine Hamstring Stretch

Follow the step-by-step instructions for this stretch.

Read article
Orthopedics
Plantar Flexion (Strength)

Follow the step-by-step instructions for this stretch.

Read article
Orthopedics
Chin Tuck (Flexibility)

Follow this step-by-step exercise.

Stethoscope Icon

Personalized Care Starts with the Right Provider

Search by specialty, location, and more.

Find A Doctor
Appointments Icon

Make an Appointment

Your health can't always wait. Schedule an appointment with a PIH Health provider.

Schedule an Appointment
Cross Icon

Find a PIH Health Urgent Care Location

Need care today?. Find the nearest PIH Health Urgent Care location.

Find Urgent Care