Cross-body shoulder stretch

The back of the shoulder capsule and the posterior deltoid get short from mouse work and from sleeping on one side.

shoulders · easy · desk-friendly

Hold. 25 seconds, each side, 2 rounds.
Also involves. none listed.

Why this one exists

The back of the shoulder capsule and the posterior deltoid get short from mouse work and from sleeping on one side.

Set up

Stand or sit. Bring the right arm across the chest at about nipple height, not jammed into the throat.

Steps

  1. Use the left hand on the right upper arm — never on the elbow joint itself if that feels pinchy.
  2. Draw the arm across until you meet a clear stretch.
  3. Keep both shoulders facing forward.
  4. Switch arms.

What you should feel

Outside and back of the shoulder. The neck stays out of it.

Skip if it hurts

Skip if this recreates a sharp pinch at the front of the shoulder or known AC-joint pain.

Common mistakes

Do not shrug the stretching shoulder up to the ear.

Nearby in the library

shouldersDoorway chest stretchshouldersThread the needleshouldersSlow shoulder rolls

All stretches · Today’s routine

Not medical advice. Stretchcrafters is a movement library, not a diagnosis or a treatment plan. Stop if something hurts, and talk to a clinician if you have an injury, unexplained pain, or a condition that changes what is safe for you.