Get Shoulder Pain Relief With Gentle Movement
Shoulder pain can show up in many ways. You might feel a nagging ache in the top of your shoulder, tightness through the front of your chest, or discomfort that travels down the outside of your arm. These issues often make lifting, reaching, or exercising more difficult. The good news is that targeted movement can make a big difference.
Why Better Mobility Matters for You
The shoulder is one of the most mobile joints in the body, but that flexibility also makes it more prone to stiffness and irritation. When the joint doesn’t move freely, nearby muscles and tissues have to work harder, which can trigger pain. One of the best exercises for restoring healthy function is called Shoulder CARs, short for Controlled Articular Rotations. As Dr. Zachary Reidinger explains, “This simple movement really helps to open up and lubricate the joint.”
How to Perform CARs
This exercise is simple enough to do at home, at the office, or before a workout.
- Start with your arm at your side, thumb pointing forward, and palm against your leg.
- Slowly lift your arm upward as high as possible.
- Rotate your arm as if you were pushing water away, continuing until the back of your hand rests against your side and your pinky points forward.
- Reverse the motion by extending your arm behind you, rotating back, and returning to the starting position.
Aim for 5-10 reps per side, twice daily. If your mobility feels limited, try a smaller range of motion and gradually increase over time.
Benefits of Shoulder Exercises
Practicing exercises like shoulder CARs consistently can ease stiffness, improve circulation within the joint, and reduce popping or grinding noises during movement. It’s also an excellent warm-up before lifting weights or performing upper-body workouts, helping your shoulders feel freer and less strained.
Start Caring for Your Shoulders Today
If shoulder discomfort is affecting your daily activities, True North Chiropractic and Wellness is here to help. Our team can assess your movement, recommend exercises, and guide you toward long-term comfort. Book an appointment in Nampa and experience how focused chiropractic care and simple exercises can improve your mobility.
