Shoulder Cane Abduction AAROM (Active Assisted Range of Motion) is a helpful exercise for individuals recovering from shoulder injuries or surgery. This move improves shoulder abduction (lifting the arm away from the body) while using a cane for gentle assistance to ensure safe and controlled movement.
How to Perform Shoulder Cane Abduction AAROM – Supine
What You’ll Need:
- A cane or similar long object
- A comfortable surface to lie on (mat, bed, etc.)
Steps:
- Set Up: Lie flat on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Hold the cane with both hands, maintaining a thumbs-up grip to encourage external rotation of your shoulder.
- Start Position: Rest your affected arm at your side.
- Assist the Lift: Using your unaffected arm, help guide your affected arm outward and upward into abduction (moving the arm away from the body).
- Reach Actively: As you raise your arm, focus on actively using the muscles in your affected arm to lift as far as you can within your comfort range.
- Use the Cane for Assistance: Once you’ve reached your limit, gently use the cane to push further into your range of motion.
- Lower Slowly: Slowly return your arm to the starting position, maintaining control throughout the movement.
- Repeat: Perform for the recommended repetitions, focusing on smooth and controlled motions.
Pro Tips:
- Keep the movement slow and controlled to avoid any jerking or overextension.
- Focus on core stability to prevent straining your lower back while performing the exercise.
- Gradually increase the range of motion as you gain strength and flexibility.
This simple but effective exercise is an excellent way to safely regain shoulder mobility and strength after an injury or surgery, especially when combined with other range-of-motion exercises.