Shoulder internal rotation stretch (with towel)
Shoulder internal rotation stretch (with towel)
- Roll up a towel lengthwise. Put the towel over your unaffected shoulder and hold the front end with your unaffected hand.
- With your affected arm, reach behind your back and grasp the other end of the towel.
- There are two ways to stretch your affected shoulder.
- With the towel lying on your shoulder, pull the front end of the towel down with your unaffected arm until you feel a stretch in the front and outside of your affected shoulder.
- Pull the front end of the towel straight up above your head with your unaffected arm until you feel a stretch in the front and outside of your affected shoulder.
- Hold for 15 to 30 seconds.
- Relax and move the towel back to the starting position.
- Repeat 2 to 4 times.
- If you can, repeat these steps for your other shoulder.
Current as of: May 1, 2026
Author: WebMD Ignite Staff
Clinical Review Board
All WebMD Ignite education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
To learn more about WebMD Ignite, visit webmdignite.com.
© 2024-2026 WebMD Ignite.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. WebMD Ignite, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.
NOTICE: This health information was not created by Columbia University Irving Medical Center and may not necessarily reflect specific CUIMC practices. For medical advice to your personal condition, please consult your doctor. Medical advice disclaimer.