What are the common symptoms of a clavicle fracture. How long does it take to recover from a broken collarbone. What treatment options are available for a fractured clavicle. When is surgery necessary for a clavicle fracture. How can you manage pain and promote healing after a collarbone injury.

Understanding Clavicle Fractures: Causes and Anatomy

A clavicle fracture, commonly known as a broken collarbone, is a frequent injury that can significantly impact shoulder function and mobility. The clavicle is a long bone that connects the ribcage to the shoulder blade, playing a crucial role in shoulder mechanics.

Most clavicle fractures occur in the middle portion of the bone, although breaks can also happen where it attaches to the ribcage or shoulder blade. Understanding the anatomy of the clavicle is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Common Causes of Clavicle Fractures

• Direct impact to the shoulder
• Falls onto the shoulder
• Car accidents
• Sports injuries, especially in contact sports
• Falls onto an outstretched arm (less common)

Do certain activities increase the risk of clavicle fractures? Indeed, participating in contact sports like football, hockey, or martial arts can elevate the risk. Additionally, high-impact activities such as cycling or motor racing may also lead to an increased likelihood of sustaining this injury.

Recognizing the Symptoms of a Broken Collarbone

Identifying the signs of a clavicle fracture is crucial for seeking prompt medical attention. The symptoms can vary in intensity but often include:

• Extreme pain in the shoulder area
• Difficulty moving the arm
• Sagging shoulder
• Inability to lift the arm
• Grinding sensation when attempting to raise the arm
• Visible deformity or bump over the break
• Bruising and swelling around the collarbone
• Tenderness over the affected area

Can you differentiate between a clavicle fracture and other shoulder injuries? While some symptoms may overlap with other shoulder conditions, the combination of pain, deformity, and limited mobility is often indicative of a clavicle fracture. However, a proper medical examination is necessary for an accurate diagnosis.

Diagnosis and Medical Evaluation of Clavicle Fractures

When a clavicle fracture is suspected, seeking medical attention is crucial. The diagnostic process typically involves:

1. Medical history review
2. Questions about the injury mechanism
3. Physical examination
4. X-ray imaging to confirm the diagnosis

Are additional imaging tests ever required for clavicle fractures? In some cases, particularly when assessing complex fractures or planning surgical intervention, CT scans or MRI may be recommended to provide more detailed information about the injury and surrounding structures.

Treatment Options for Broken Collarbones

The treatment approach for clavicle fractures depends on several factors, including the severity of the break, the position of the bone fragments, and the patient’s overall health and activity level. Treatment options can be broadly categorized into non-surgical and surgical approaches.

Non-Surgical Treatment

Many clavicle fractures can heal without surgery if the broken ends of the bones have not significantly shifted out of alignment. Non-surgical treatment typically involves:

• Arm sling or wrap for immobilization
• Pain medication
• Physical therapy
• Rest and activity modification

Surgical Treatment

Surgery may be necessary if the bones are significantly displaced or shortened at the break site. Surgical options include:

• Plate and screw fixation (most common)
• Intramedullary rod placement
• Pins for temporary stabilization

How does a surgeon determine whether surgery is necessary? The decision is based on factors such as the degree of bone displacement, the risk of non-union (failure to heal), and the patient’s functional demands. Generally, surgery is considered when there is significant shortening of the clavicle or when the bone ends are widely separated.

Recovery Timeline and Rehabilitation Process

The recovery time for a clavicle fracture can vary depending on the severity of the injury and the treatment method. Generally, it takes several months for a collarbone to heal completely.

Typical Recovery Timeline

1. Weeks 1-2: Focus on pain management and protection of the injury
2. Weeks 3-6: Gradual increase in range of motion exercises
3. Weeks 6-12: Progressive strengthening exercises
4. Months 3-6: Return to normal activities and sports

Is the recovery timeline different for surgical versus non-surgical treatment? While the overall healing time for the bone may be similar, patients who undergo surgery often experience a more structured rehabilitation process and may return to activities sooner due to the stable fixation of the fracture.

Pain Management and Comfort Measures

Managing pain and discomfort is a crucial aspect of clavicle fracture recovery. Various strategies can be employed to alleviate pain and promote healing:

• Over-the-counter pain medications (e.g., ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
• Prescription pain medications (for severe pain, typically short-term use)
• Ice therapy to reduce swelling and numb the area
• Proper arm support using a sling or wrap
• Gentle exercises as recommended by a healthcare provider
• Adequate rest and sleep to support the healing process

Are there any natural remedies that can help with pain management? Some patients find relief through complementary approaches such as aromatherapy, mindfulness techniques, or gentle massage of surrounding muscles. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating any alternative treatments.

Complications and Long-Term Outlook

While most clavicle fractures heal without significant complications, it’s important to be aware of potential issues that may arise during the recovery process:

Possible Complications

• Nonunion (failure of the bone to heal)
• Malunion (bone heals in an incorrect position)
• Shoulder stiffness or weakness
• Nerve or blood vessel injury (rare)
• Infection (in cases of open fractures or after surgery)
• Hardware irritation (if plates or screws were used)

Can clavicle fractures lead to long-term shoulder problems? In most cases, with proper treatment and rehabilitation, patients can expect a full recovery with no long-term limitations. However, some individuals may experience persistent shoulder weakness or reduced range of motion, particularly if the fracture was severe or complications occurred during healing.

Preventing Clavicle Fractures and Future Injuries

While not all clavicle fractures can be prevented, certain measures can help reduce the risk of injury or re-injury:

• Wearing appropriate protective gear during sports and high-risk activities
• Strengthening exercises for the shoulder and upper body
• Improving balance and coordination to prevent falls
• Practicing proper form and technique in sports and physical activities
• Maintaining bone health through proper nutrition and exercise

Is it possible to strengthen the clavicle itself to prevent fractures? While you can’t directly strengthen the clavicle bone, improving the strength and stability of the surrounding muscles can help protect the shoulder region and potentially reduce the risk of injury.

Understanding clavicle fractures, their treatment options, and the recovery process is crucial for anyone who has experienced this injury or is at risk due to their activities. By following proper treatment protocols and engaging in appropriate rehabilitation, most individuals can expect a successful recovery and return to their normal activities. If you suspect a clavicle fracture, it’s essential to seek prompt medical attention to ensure the best possible outcome.

Broken collarbone: Symptoms and recovery

THIS POST IS PART OF THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO BACK PAIN RELIEF

A clavicle fracture is also known as a broken collarbone. The clavicle is a long bone and most breaks occur in the middle of it; in some cases, the bone will break where it attaches at the ribcage or shoulder blade.

Anatomy

The clavicle (collarbone) is between the ribcage and the shoulder blade. It is part of your shoulder and connects the ribcage to the arm. The clavicle lies above important nerves and blood vessels; but these vital structures are rarely injured when the clavicle breaks.

Cause

A fractured clavicle is usually caused by a direct impact to the shoulder, which can happen during a fall on the shoulder or a car accident. Rarely, a fall onto an outstretched arm can also cause a clavicle fracture.

A fractured clavicle is sometimes a medical emergency so call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room (OrthoIndy Trauma physicians are at St. Vincent Indianapolis Level I Trauma Center).

Symptoms of a clavicle fracture

• Extreme pain in the shoulder area
• Difficulty moving your arm
• Sagging shoulder
• Inability to lift your arm
• A grinding sensation if an attempt is made to raise your arm
• A deformity or bump over the break
• Bruising
• Swelling or tenderness over the collarbone

Physician examination

Your physician will ask you for a complete medical history, ask questions about the injury and how it occurred, and conduct a physical examination. An X-ray can confirm the diagnosis.

Make an appointment with an OrthoIndy trauma specialist

Broken collarbone treatment

Often, fractures can heal without surgery if the broken ends of the bones have not shifted too far out a place and still line up correctly. A simple arm sling or wrap is usually used for comfort immediately after the break. Pain medication and physical therapy will also play a part in the recovery process.

You may need surgery for a fractured clavicle if the bones are out of place or shortened at the break. Surgery can align the bones and hold them in place while they heal. The two ends of the bone are held in correct alignment after surgery with either plate and screws (more common) or a rod.

Broken collarbone recovery

Whether treatment involves surgery or not, it can take several months for a collarbone to heal. Most people return to regular activities (except maybe direct impact sports like football) within three months of their injury.

Learn more about trauma care at OrthoIndy.

Schedule an appointment

Your well-being is important to us. Click the button below or call us to schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists. If your injury or condition is recent, you can walk right into one of our OrthoIndy Urgent Care locations for immediate care. For rehabilitation and physical therapy, no referral is needed to see one of our physical therapists.

Clavicle Fracture Treatment Denver CO

What is a Clavicle Fracture?

Clavicle fracture, also called broken collarbone is a very common sports injury seen in people who are involved in contact sports such as football and martial arts as well as impact sports such as motor racing. A direct blow over the shoulder that may occur during a fall on an outstretched arm or a motor vehicle accident may cause the clavicle bone to break.

Symptoms of Clavicle Fractures

Broken clavicle may cause difficulty in lifting your arm because of pain, swelling and bruising over the bone.

Treatments for Clavicle Fractures

Broken clavicle bone, usually heals without surgery, but if the bone ends have shifted out of place (displaced) surgery will be recommended. Surgery is performed to align the bone ends and hold them stable during healing. This improves the shoulder strength. Surgery for the fixation of clavicle fractures may be considered in the following circumstances:

• Multiple fractures
• Compound (open) fractures
• Fracture associated with nerve or blood vessel damage and scapula fracture
• Overlapping of the broken ends of bone (shortened clavicle)

Plates and Screws Fixation

During this surgical procedure, your surgeon will reposition the broken bone ends into normal position and then uses special screws or metal plates to hold the bone fragments in place. These plates and screws are usually left in the bone. If they cause any irritation, they can be removed after fracture healing is complete.

Pins

Placement of pins may also be considered to hold the fracture in position and the incision required is also smaller. They often cause irritation in the skin at the site of insertion and must be removed once the fracture heals.

Percutaneous Elastic Intramedullary Nailing of the Clavicle

Percutaneous elastic intramedullary nailing of the clavicle is a newer and less invasive procedure with lesser complications. It is considered as a safe method for fixation of displaced clavicle fractures in adolescents and athletes as it allows rapid healing and faster return to sports. The procedure is performed under fluoroscopic guidance. It involves a small 1 cm skin incision near the sternoclavicular joint, and then a hole is drilled in the anterior cortex after which an elastic nail is inserted into the medullary canal of the clavicle. Then the nail is passed on to reach the fracture site. A second operation to remove the nail will be performed after 2-3 months.

Complications of Clavicle Fracture Surgery

Patients with diabetes, the elderly individuals and people who make use of tobacco products are at a greater risk of developing complications both during and after the surgery. In addition to the risks that occur with any major surgery, certain specific risks of clavicle fracture surgery include difficulty in bone healing, lung injury and irritation caused by hardware.

Recovery after a clavicle fracture: prices for rehabilitation after surgery in Moscow and Moscow region

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Rehabilitation programs

Rehabilitation after fractures

Rehabilitation after fracture of the collarbone

Indications for the course

How is rehabilitation in our center?

Rehabilitation after a fracture of the clavicle takes place using a set of methods. The main component is physiotherapy exercises. We will select feasible exercises to develop atrophied muscles and increase endurance. Auxiliary methods – therapeutic massage, ergotherapy, physiotherapy, therapeutic nutrition. If necessary, the doctor prescribes a course of medication.

You can contact the rehabilitation center “Prosperity” immediately after the operation. We will restore lost motor functions in the shoulder joint in case of injuries of varying severity – with displacement, with splinters, with dislocations.

The cost of recovery after a fracture of the collarbone is formed on an all-inclusive basis. The price already includes all the necessary assistance, medicines, services of specialists and nurses.

Urgent consultation

What is included in the recovery course after a clavicle fracture?

Rehabilitation package

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Includes exercise therapy, physiotherapy (electrophoresis, magnetotherapy), ergote

24-hour care

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Each room has a panic button. The nurse is available 24/7. Will help with hygiene, make dressings and injections.

Medicines and supplies

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The patient will receive all medicines, dressing materials and hygiene items. You don’t need to take anything with you.

Medical supervision

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Every day, the doctor examines the patient, assesses the state of health and the dynamics of rehabilitation. If necessary, adjustments are made.

Five meals a day

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The menu is selected individually. Food contains a lot of calcium and vitamins. Prepared by our chefs in a separate block.

Comfortable rooms with everything you need

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The rooms have a cozy homely atmosphere. There is everything you need for people with limited movements.

Rehabilitation center “Prosperity” is located in a picturesque pine forest. We are located in the Noginsky district of the Moscow region, 30 km from Moscow. Call the phone on the site or click “Urgent consultation”. Leave your details and our specialists will call you back to answer all your questions. A clavicle fracture rehabilitation program will be developed based on your medical history and medical examination. Sign up for our guest visit to see everything with your own eyes.

What is All Inclusive Rehabilitation

Reviews of the center

Slavnov V.V

I would like to note the work of your center and say a huge thank you to all your employees and instructors. In particular, to note the well-coordinated work of Marina and Andrey, exercise therapy instructors. They are great!

Ergotherapists Nadezhda and Svetlana. Masseuse Gaione is not only an excellent masseuse, but also an excellent psychologist! Very pleased with her. Good support staff, everything is delicious, clean and everyone is kind and smiling!

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Stupina M.T

I (Stupina M.T.) underwent rehabilitation at the center. I came to court according to the wishes of relatives. At the entrance to the territory, the cleanliness and neatness around the buildings, on the way to them, immediately catches the eye.

In the middle of the hall there is an ideal atmosphere of everyday life, cleanliness, friendliness from the staff. The entire staff is like one big family. I want to say a big thank you for the warmth and attention on their part: Julia, Galina, Dinara, V.P.
If I decide, I will only go here.

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Polyakov V.I

Thank you very much for the high level of training of your specialists. I would like to separately express my gratitude and wish for a cash payment to the instructor of exercise therapy Marina and Andrey, Svetlana and Nadezhda. They gave me a fresh breath of hope and inspired me to exercise, disciplined me, adjusted my daily routine.

I think after these classes with them I will be ready to work, even if with restrictions. Thank you very much, guys, friends. All the best to you!

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Mokrushin Yu.A.

I want to express my sincere gratitude to the entire staff of the rehabilitation center “welfare”, in which my husband Mokrushin Yu.A. We got to the center after a stroke + covid + bacterial pneumonia. The husband was very weak, did not walk at all, his emotional state was depressing. The staff of the center managed to change the emotional mood, increase motivation!

Special thanks to the exercise therapy instructor – Marina, who always encouraged and motivated her husband. Result – the husband walks!!! This is the main thing.

Many thanks to all the staff and maintenance personnel of the 2nd building, 2nd floor!!! Always very attentive!

Massage at the highest level! Thank you Victor!
And of course, Hope! Thank you so much for the ergotherapy classes!!!

Dear doctors! Your professionalism gives people hope for a normal life!
Many thanks to Yuri Semenovich and Valery Nikolaevich. for an individual approach and qualified assistance!

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Abramov A. B

I am Abramov Alexander was undergoing rehabilitation after suffering a spinal injury, cervical. We would like to thank all the medical and nursing staff. We thank the massage therapist Natalya, the instructor Anton for the qualified help. Anya in occupational therapy. Special thanks to the best doctor Tatyana Ivanovna and Yuri Semenovich. I would like to thank the chefs for a delicious variety of food. Thanks to the nurses, orderlies, who provided us with comfortable accommodation and coziness.

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Chernousov A.A

I, Chernousov Alexander Anatolyevich, want to express my deep gratitude to all the staff of your center! You gave me back my faith that I can be a complete person again. And a stroke is not a death sentence. You helped me in terms of physical and moral recovery.

Special thanks to methodologist Ivanov Andrey. You are great, keep it up! Get people up on their feet. Many thanks to nurse Elena, thanks to you, I felt at home.

Thanks again. All, all health to you, prosperity!

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I want to thank all the employees of the center for their kindness and responsive attitude. Especially to note the doctor Svetlana Alexandrovna, the nurse Lilia Anatolyevna, the nurses, exercise therapy trainers, the massage master Natalia, It should be noted the perfect cleanliness of the premises, varied and plentiful food!

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Chebanova I. A.

Belokurova O.I.

I would like to express my gratitude to the entire staff of the rehabilitation center “Welfare. During the time spent here, I received a full rehabilitation after knee arthroplasty. Special thanks to Polishchuk Yuri Semenovich, the attending physician Skok Svetlana Alexandrovna, nurse Larisa Gennadievna, Kvartalnova Alesa Valerievna, Selina Darya Alexandrovna and all the attendants. I will recommend your center to my friends as soon as possible.

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Sedach T.A.

I want to thank all the staff of the center for their good attitude towards patients. I especially want to note the doctor-neurologist Kayasheva K.S., masseur Borodulina N.O., nurses, nurses, exercise therapy instructors. Perfect cleanliness of the premises. All in all. Thanks a lot!

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Nazarova I. D.

Many thanks to the staff of the rehabilitation center “Prosperity” for your continuous work and attention to patients. I thank the doctors Yuri Semenovich Polishchuk and Svetlana Aleksandrovna Skok for their warm and attentive attitude. Many thanks to the nannies and nurses for their continuous and tireless care for the patients. All employees good health and well-being.

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Makhina N.G.

Many thanks to the whole team, and especially to the exercise therapy instructor Kamran, masseuse Natalia, ergotherapist Svetlana. Once again I thank everyone for the work and comfort and for the results of my rehabilitation.

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Mikhailova T.I.

My words of gratitude to those employees with whom I had a chance to communicate: Grunicheva Daria, Skurlatova Galina – ergo instructors. Excellent knowledge of many methods of rehabilitation of the upper extremities. They were very supportive during our sessions. Mitin Anton and Zhdanov Ilya are exercise therapy instructors. Knowledgeable, experienced, hardworking staff. Polishchuk Yury Semenovich, Lastovkin Valery Nikolaevich – doctors with extensive experience in working with severe patients. Thanks to all these people for my rehabilitation. I would especially like to note the work of the animator. A sea of ​​positive, with which she charges all around. Thanks to all the nannies, nurses, barmaids. Their work is very hard and deserves special thanks. I also want to thank Abdulminova L.G. for her attention, commitment, incredible diligence. Thanks again for everything you’ve done for me.

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Solikhova L.V.

I, Solikhova LV, was undergoing treatment in your clinic for rehabilitation. First of all, I want to thank the doctors for the accursed attention and help that they gave me to Valery Nikolaevich, the attending physician, also to Yuri Semenovich. Nurses Alevtina Mikhailovna, Svetlana Petrushina, Irina, Svetlana. Thank you for their attention to us sick. I especially want to emphasize for the good work of the instructor Nikolaeva Marina, Lyubov, and also Kamran. Svetlana, Natalya, Maria excelled especially. They will always help in time, calmly solve our problems, I bow before them for their work, because the patient does not need anything courtesy and understanding. They will never pass by, thank you very much for such an attitude towards me. May God grant them all health and success in their work!

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Svyatova L.I.

Stayed at the center from 07.09 to 03.10.20. I’m leaving with an improvement. I want to say thank you to the entire staff of the center for the comfort, kindness, responsiveness and professionalism created. Thank you dear colleagues! You were able to soften the severity of the injury in your soul, happiness to you, good luck in everything and professional success!

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Dolgikh T. A.

Dr. Yuri Semenovich Polishchuk and his team of rehabilitation trainers and exercise therapy instructors thank you for the results! Grateful! Thank you for the confidence that the experts instilled in me, the motivation to further work on the problem.

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Big maternal gratitude to the whole team of “Prosperity” for the son, who was put on his feet. You can immediately see the great professionalism. Thanks everyone!

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Box V.P.

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Exercises after a collarbone fracture – Rehabilitologist Osteopath Maxim Podduev (Kyiv)

Shoulders, shoulder blades, chest, Rehabilitation

The effectiveness of treatment and recovery after a fracture of the collarbone depends on many factors: the severity of the injury, the professionalism of doctors, the age of the patient and proper rehabilitation. These exercises are specially designed for soft tissue rehabilitation and effective restoration of range of motion in the shoulder girdle and limb.

Clothing should be loose, it is advisable to remove shoes. All exercises (especially the first days) should be performed smoothly and gradually. Remember the important principle: “Tolerate mild pain, do not allow severe pain.”

Stick Curl

Stand straight with your feet shoulder-width apart. Hold the stick with both hands, palms facing the floor. Raise your arms as high as possible above your head and hold for 5 seconds. Return to starting position. Repeat 10 times.

Stick Extension

Stand straight with your feet shoulder-width apart. Take the wand with both hands behind your back. Move your arms as far away from your back as possible and hold for 5 seconds. Repeat 10 times.

Lying spin

Lie on your back on the floor. Hold the wand with both hands, palms facing. Shoulders and elbows rest on the floor. Use your good hand to rotate the patient in different directions. Hold your hand in the maximum tilt position for 5 seconds. Repeat 10 times.

Stick Stretch

Stand straight with your feet shoulder-width apart. Take the wand behind your head with your healthy hand, take your sore hand behind your back and take the other end of the wand. With your healthy hand, pull the wand up, thereby increasing the flexion of the sore arm. Hold for 5 seconds. Repeat 10 times.

Vertical rotation

Stand straight with your feet shoulder-width apart. Take the wand with both hands, palms away from you. With your healthy hand, move your injured hand to the side as much as possible. Try to lift as high as possible, hold for 5 seconds. Repeat 10 times.

Horizontal rotation

Stand up straight, hold the stick with both hands and raise it to shoulder level. Rotate the wand to the side until a stretch is felt. Hold the reached position for 5 seconds. Then repeat the exercises on the other side. Repeat 10 times.

Shoulder Curl

Stand straight with your feet shoulder-width apart and your arms hanging freely. Raise your arms straight in front of you and as high as possible. Hold for 5 seconds and then return to the starting position. 2 sets of 15 reps.

Vertical spread

Stand straight with your feet shoulder-width apart and your arms hanging freely. Take your hands to the sides (as shown in the figure) and lift as high as possible. Hold for 5 seconds. Return to starting position. Repeat 10 times.

Horizontal spread

Stand up straight and raise your straight arms to shoulder level. Spread them apart as far as possible. Hold for 5 seconds, then bring your hands back in front of you. Repeat 10 times. Try not to put your hands down throughout the exercise.

Shoulder Extension

Stand straight with your feet shoulder-width apart. Extend the arm being developed back (as shown in the figure) and hold for 5 seconds. Then return to the starting position. Repeat 10 times.

Shoulder rotation

Raise your shoulders up and hold for 5 seconds. Squeeze your shoulder blades together and hold for 5 seconds. Then pull the shoulder blades down, as if trying to put your hands in the back pockets of your trousers, and also hold for 5 seconds. Repeat 10 times each action.

Lying arm abduction

Lying on the healthy side, the target arm is relaxed in front of you. Slowly raise the arm being developed up as far as possible. 2 sets of 15 reps. Take a small weight in your hand when the exercise is no longer difficult.

Shoulder Raise

Lie on your stomach on a table or on the edge of a bed with your arm hanging down. Slowly raise your arm back and up without bending your elbow. Return to starting position. 2 sets of 15 reps. Take a small weight in your hand when the exercise is no longer difficult.

Shoulder Abduction

Stand up straight, arms at your sides, palms facing you. Take the straight, developed hand to the side, and then as high as possible. Hold for 5 seconds, return to starting position. Repeat 10 times. Take a small weight in your hand when the exercise is no longer difficult.

Internal rotation

Stand with your working arm towards the door. Fasten the end of the expander behind the door at waist level, take the other end of the expander with your developed hand and bend it at the elbow at 90 degrees. Keeping the elbow pressed, rotate the forearm from the door to the body, and then slowly return to the starting position. It is important to keep the forearm parallel to the floor. 2 sets of 8 to 12 reps.

Flexion resistance

Stand with your back to the door. Fasten the end of the expander behind the door at waist level, take the other end of the expander with your developed hand. Pull your arm forward, bending it at the shoulder. 2 sets of 15 reps.

Extension resistance

Stand facing the door. Fasten the end of the expander behind the door at shoulder level, take the other end of the expander with your developed hand.