Sidelying External Rotation

Professional Rationale
This exercise is a rotator cuff strengthening exercise and is recommended for any shoulder pathology as long as the patient is able to move the arm against gravity, is able to complete these pain-free, and does not have any post-surgical restrictions for strengthening against gravity.

Client Rationale
This exercise is used to strengthen your rotator cuff. The rotator cuff is a group of 4 muscles that help to stabilize (control) the humeral head so that the shoulder can function properly. These muscles are strengthened by doing high repetitions and little to no weight. These exercises are performed in a pain-free range of motion and should not produce any sharp pain.



Instructions

• Lie on uninvolved side.
• Place a towel roll under your upper arm.
• Keep elbow bent to 90 degrees.
• Keep shoulder blades down and together.
• Raise hand away from stomach until forearm is parallel to surface.
• Lower slowly.
• Do not straighten elbow.
• Do not rush through exercises.

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