Management

Shoulder External Rotation, Isometric (Strength)

Choose a preferred language
  1. Stand with your affected arm close to a wall.

  2. Bend your arm up in front of you so your elbow is at a 90° angle (like the letter "L").

  3. While keeping your elbow tight to your side throughout the exercise, press the back of your hand into the wall.

  4. Hold for 5 seconds. Then relax.

  5. Repeat 10 times.

  6. Switch sides and repeat if instructed.

  7. Repeat this exercise 3 times a day, or as instructed.

Woman doing external rotation shoulder exercise.

Author: Wheeler, Brooke

Online Medical Reviewer: Lalitha Kadali

Online Medical Reviewer: Stacey Wojcik MBA BSN RN

Online Medical Reviewer: Trina Bellendir PT

Date Last Reviewed: 02/01/2025

© 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
Head Tilt (Upper Trapezius Stretch)

Follow the step-by-step instructions for this stretch to ease neck pain.

Read article
Orthopedics
Lumbar Extension (Flexibility)

This exercise helps keep your back flexible.

Read article
Orthopedics
Neck Clock (Flexibility)

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