Codman Shoulder Exercises

Codman shoulder exercises are usually prescribed for shoulder rehabilitation after surgery or other shoulder injuries such as dislocation. This exercise consists of pendulum and circular movements that aid in the decrease of pain and swelling of the shoulder after surgery and also helps with shoulder flexibility and ease of motion. The Codman exercise can be done in the prone or the standing position.

Prone Position

• In the prone position, while lying facing down on a bed, you will need to dangle your weak arm off the side of the bed. Relax the neck muscles, the arm, shoulder and shoulder blade. In a pendulum motion, start to swing the arm forward and backward, about 15 to 30 degrees each way. As the pain decreases, increase the swing to 30 to 45 degrees each way. When you first start this exercise, the duration should be no more than 15 seconds and over time, work up to three to five minutes. This should be done three times each day. When pain free, 3 to 5 pound weights can be added during the exercise.

Standing Position

• In the standing position, bend at the waist and support yourself with your good arm using a chair or table. Allow the weak arm to hang, relaxing the muscles of the shoulder and shoulder blade. Use your body to start the arm swinging in a circular motion. The movement should be effortless. This should be done for 30 seconds in one direction and repeat for 30 seconds in the reverse direction. Start with small circles and gradually increase the size of the circles. This should be done three times each day. When there is little to no pain, three to five pound weights can be added during the exercise.

Considerations

• You should not experience any severe pain while doing the Codman shoulder exercises. If you do experience any pain or swelling, stop and rest and apply an ice pack to the shoulder. Consult your physician for further instructions.