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Shoulder Exercises: Side Raise

This exercise stretches and strengthens your shoulders. Before starting, talk about the exercise with your health care provider and read through all the directions. During the exercise, breathe normally and use smooth movements. Stop if you feel any pain. If pain persists, call your health care provider.

  • Stand straight, holding a ____ pound weight in each hand, arms at sides, feet shoulder-width apart. Ask your physical therapist or health care provider how much weight to use. 

  • Slowly extend your arms up and out until weights are at shoulder level. Slowly return to starting position.

  • Repeat ____ times. Do ____ sets ____ times a day.

Woman doing side raise shoulder exercise with hand weights.

Caution

Don’t swing the weights or raise weights above shoulder level.

Online Medical Reviewer: Daphne Pierce-Smith RN MSN
Online Medical Reviewer: Rajadurai Samnishanth Researcher
Online Medical Reviewer: Raymond Turley Jr PA-C
Date Last Reviewed: 4/1/2025
© 2000-2025 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.
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