Dismiss Modal

Management

Standing Scapular Pinch

Choose a preferred language
  1. Stand up straight. Raise each arm up to the side, bent at 90-degree angles with palms forward. This can also be performed with your hands at your side with your palms facing your thigh or forward.

  2. Squeeze your shoulders back, making sure you do not shrug your shoulders at the same time, pushing your shoulder blades toward each other. Hold for 5 seconds, or as instructed.

  3. Relax. Repeat 5 times, or as instructed.

Exercise showing man's back with arms bent at elbows, pinching shoulder blades together.

Author: Wheeler, Brooke

Author: Yang, Sue

© 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.
Related Articles
Read more →
Orthopedics
Shoulder Shrug Exercise

Use the shoulder shrug to stretch and strengthen your shoulders and neck.

Read more →
Orthopedics
Shoulder Clock Exercise

See how to do this exercise to stretch your shoulder muscles.

Read more →
Orthopedics
Quadruped Arm-Reach Exercise

Try these reach and hold exercises to stretch your neck and upper back.

Read more →
Orthopedics
Shoulder Squeeze Exercise

Learn these neck and upper back exercises that involve shoulder squeezes.