During this strengthening exercise, your arm should stay about 30 degrees to the front of your side.

1. Slowly raise your injured arm to the side, with your thumb facing up. Raise your arm 60 degrees at the most (shoulder level is 90 degrees).
2. Hold the position for 3 to 5 seconds. Then lower your arm back to your side. If you need to, bring your "good" arm across your body and place it under the elbow as you lower your injured arm. Use your good arm to keep your injured arm from dropping down too fast.
3. Repeat 8 to 12 times.
4. When you first start out, don't hold any extra weight in your hand. As you get stronger, you may use a 1-pound to 2-pound dumbbell or a small can of food.