Sam's Blog: How to Use Yoga for Shoulder Pain

Need shoulder pain relief fast? Rather than turning to expensive prescription drugs or motion-limiting arm slings, try doing stretches as a way to keep your upper arms limber and loose.

Shoulder pain is widespread in the U.S. A 2006 survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that about 10 percent of American adults had experienced shoulder aches or stiffness in the previous 30 days.

This pain can be caused by arthritis, bursitis or a number of other age- and injury-related health conditions. To relax your shoulders and reduce inflammation, consider trying the following exercise.

Edit Steps

Shrug your shoulders up and down for about a minute.
Shrug your shoulders up and down for about a minute. This will loosen them up and shake away tension.
Raise one arm and bend it behind your head, as if you are trying to form an inverted V behind your head.
Raise one arm and bend it behind your head, as if you are trying to form an inverted V behind your head. Reach up and grab your raised wrist with your free hand. Gently pull your arm down behind your head, stretching your shoulder joint.
Repeat on the other side, remembering to breathe slowly and deeply all the while.
Repeat on the other side, remembering to breathe slowly and deeply all the while.
Try this brief exercise three to four times per day as a way to gradually increase the flexibility and range of motion in your shoulders.
Try this brief exercise three to four times per day as a way to gradually increase the flexibility and range of motion in your shoulders. Over time, you may experience a gradual reduction in pain and swelling.