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Collarbone Fracture: Rehab Exercises

Introduction

Here are some examples of exercises for you to try. The exercises may be suggested for a condition or for rehabilitation. Start each exercise slowly. Ease off the exercises if you start to have pain.

You will be told when to start these exercises and which ones will work best for you.

How to do the exercises

Shoulder blade squeeze

Picture of shoulder blade squeeze exercise
slide 1 of 4
slide 1 of 4, Shoulder blade squeeze,
  1. While standing with your arms at your sides, squeeze your shoulder blades together. Do not raise your shoulders up as you are squeezing.
  2. Hold 6 seconds.
  3. Repeat 8 to 12 times.

Wall angels

Picture of wall angels exercise
slide 2 of 4
slide 2 of 4, Wall angels,
  1. Start this exercise with your back against a wall and your hands raised above your head.
  2. Keeping your arms against the wall, bend your elbows and slowly lower your arms while squeezing your shoulder blades together.
  3. Repeat 8 to 12 times.

Shoulder flexion (lying down)

Picture of shoulder flexion exercise while lying down
slide 3 of 4
slide 3 of 4, Shoulder flexion (lying down),

To make a wand for this exercise, use a piece of PVC pipe or a broom handle with the broom removed. Make the wand about 30 centimetres wider than your shoulders.

  1. Lie on your back, holding a wand with both hands. Your palms should face down as you hold the wand.
  2. Keep your elbows straight, and slowly raise your arms over your head until you feel a stretch in your shoulders, upper back, and chest.
  3. Hold for 15 to 30 seconds.
  4. Repeat 2 to 4 times.

Chest stretch (lying down)

Picture of chest stretch exercise while lying down
slide 4 of 4
slide 4 of 4, Chest stretch (lying down),
  1. Lie on your back with your elbows bent. Your arms should be out to your sides, and your arms and elbows should be resting on the surface you are lying on, such as the floor.
  2. Raise your hands above your head until you feel a stretch in your chest.
  3. Hold for 15 to 30 seconds.
  4. Repeat 2 to 4 times.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

Care instructions adapted under license by your healthcare professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or this instruction, always ask your healthcare professional. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.