The Best At-Home Workouts for Shoulder Pain Recovery

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Last updated: 29/05/2025
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  • Author: Zoe Patler
    Medically reviewed by Maria Vasquez, NASM Certified Personal Trainer and Sports Nutrition Coach with expertise in Functional Training and Running Coaching. CPR/AED certified for safe, effective workouts. Dedicated to helping you achieve strength, endurance, and optimal health.
Shoulder pain can be a real downer. It can make everyday activities like reaching for a coffee cup or playing with your kids a struggle. Whether it’s a nagging ache after a long day at the computer or a sharp pain that came on suddenly, knowing how to manage and overcome shoulder pain is crucial for your overall well-being. The good news is that with the right approach, you can often find significant relief and even accelerate your recovery with a dedicated shoulder pain workout at home.
This article will guide you through the causes of shoulder pain, outline safe and effective shoulder pain recovery exercises you can do at home, and demonstrate how personalized online personal training for shoulder pain can transform your recovery journey.

table of contents

shoulder pain and exercise

MEDICAL DISCLAIMER: This article provides general information about shoulder pain and exercise. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your doctor or a qualified physical therapist before starting any new exercise program, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition or are experiencing shoulder pain. The information provided in this article is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Understanding the Root of Your Shoulder Pain

It's smart to learn about what usually causes shoulder pain before starting any exercises. Understanding the reason behind your pain will let you choose the best home exercises for your shoulder and make sure you don't accidentally make things worse! Let me know if you'd like to explore some common shoulder pain culprits together.

  • Shoulder Impingement: This happens when tendons in your rotator cuff get pinched by the bones in your shoulder. Activities involving overhead movements often exacerbate this condition.
  • Rotator Cuff Strain/Tears: The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilize your shoulder. A strain (or, more seriously, a tear) can result from overuse, sudden injury, or repetitive movements.
  • Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): This condition causes stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint, restricting movement.
  • Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa, fluid-filled sacs that cushion the shoulder joint.
  • Osteoarthritis: The wear and tear of the cartilage in the shoulder joint, often causing pain and stiffness.
  • Poor Posture: Slouching, especially when sitting at a desk, can strain the shoulder muscles and contribute to pain. This is a common contributor to conditions like impingement and can be addressed with specific posture exercises for shoulder issues.

It’s important to note that if your pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by numbness or weakness, you should seek immediate medical attention from a healthcare professional.
At Mywowfit we believe in helping you achieve your fitness goals safely and effectively. Our certified trainers have extensive experience working with individuals of all levels and conditions, including rotator cuff injuries. We'll create a personalized plan just for you, whether it's through live 1-on-1 sessions on Zoom or trainer-led workout plans you can follow at your own pace. We're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way so you can live a healthier, more active life free from pain.

  • Truly personalized, human coaching
  • Flexible, anytime-anywhere training
  • Lifelong consistency: no burnout, no injuries

1-on-1 Workouts & Custom Fitness Plans with Online Personal Trainer

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Identifying High-Risk Movements to Avoid During Recovery

During the recovery process, certain movements can aggravate your shoulder pain and delay healing. Some movements might make your pain worse or slow down recovery:
  • Hold off on overhead pressing exercises like lifting dumbbells or barbells straight up.
  • Avoid heavy lifting anything that puts a lot of weight on your shoulder.
  • Go easy with quick, jerky arm movements.
  • Not reach behind your back, as this can stretch your shoulder and make it hurt more.
  • Try sleeping on your other side, so you don't put pressure on the sore shoulder.

Safe and Effective At-Home Exercises for Shoulder Pain Recovery

shoulder pain recovery

The cornerstone of your shoulder pain recovery plan will be a carefully designed exercise program. These best exercises for shoulder pain are designed to improve mobility, strengthen supporting muscles, and gradually rebuild your shoulder’s functionality. Remember, consistency is key, and listening to your body is paramount. Stop immediately if you experience sharp pain.

Mobility Exercises

Strengthening Exercises

Posture Exercises

Often overlooked, these are essential for correcting imbalances and preventing future shoulder issues.
  • Chin Tucks: Gently pull your chin back towards your neck, as if making a double chin. Hold for 5 seconds and release. Repeat 10-15 times.
  • Shoulder Blade Squeezes: Sit or stand tall with your shoulders relaxed. Gently squeeze your shoulder blades together, as if trying to hold a pencil between them. Hold for 5 seconds and release. Repeat 10-15 times.
  • Chest Stretches: Stand in a doorway and place your forearms against the doorframe, elbows bent at 90 degrees. Lean forward until you feel a stretch in your chest. Hold for 20-30 seconds.
If you’re serious about overcoming shoulder pain and achieving lasting relief, working with a skilled trainer is essential. Mywowfit certified professionals specialize in identifying the specific postural issues causing your pain and developing a personalized plan tailored just for you.
Swati, Post-inj recovery
Swati, a certified yoga instructor with over 7 years of experience and more than 8,000 practice hours, Swati is a dedicated yogini passionate about motivating and connecting with her students. Her teaching philosophy centers on designing curricula that align perfectly with her students’ physical capabilities and learning aspirations.

Weekly Recovery Progression

As you start your at-home shoulder rehab exercises, it’s vital to progress gradually. This table outlines a general guideline; always listen to your body and adjust the intensity based on your pain levels. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider or physical therapist for personalized guidance.

How Mywowfit Trainers Customize Workouts for Shoulder Pain Recovery

At Mywowfit, we understand that every individual’s journey to recovery is unique. Our certified trainers have extensive experience working with clients experiencing shoulder pain, including those with rotator cuff injury exercises requirements, shoulder impingement workout needs, and those looking for general relief from shoulder issues. We take a personalized approach, offering online personal training for shoulder pain.

  • Live 1-on-1 Sessions: Receive personalized support and real-time guidance from a certified instructor via Zoom. Perfect for those who thrive with direct interaction and immediate feedback.
  • To-Go Trainer-Led Plans: Access customized workout plans and support through our app. Ideal for those who value independence and flexibility in their training schedule.

Regardless of the format you choose, you will benefit from:
  • Expert Trainers: Our certified trainers have experience working with clients with joint pain and understand how to modify exercises to suit your individual needs. They can tailor low-impact strength training programs for your specific pain points.
  • Customized Programs: We’ll create a program that takes into account your condition, fitness level, and goals. We’ll teach you proper form and provide ongoing support and guidance.
  • Convenience: Train from the comfort of your own home, on your own schedule. No more excuses!

  • Truly personalized, human coaching
  • Flexible, anytime-anywhere training
  • Lifelong consistency: no burnout, no injuries

1-on-1 Workouts & Custom Fitness Plans with Online Personal Trainer

★★★★★ 4.8 out of 5 across 600+ reviews

Client Success Story

John T.
I was suffering from chronic shoulder pain for months, struggling to even lift my arm without sharp pain. My doctor recommended physical therapy, but I was hesitant. Then I found Mywowfit. My trainer, Swati, listened to my concerns and created a program specifically for my shoulder pain recovery. The online sessions were incredibly convenient, and Sarah’s guidance was spot-on. I’m amazed at how much better my shoulder feels, and I’m now able to return to my normal activities pain-free. I highly recommend Mywowfit to anyone dealing with shoulder pain.

Conclusion

Shoulder pain can significantly impact your quality of life, but it doesn’t have to be a permanent limitation. By understanding the potential causes of your discomfort, avoiding high-risk movements, and diligently following a personalized exercise program that includes shoulder pain recovery exercises, at-home shoulder rehab exercises, and targeted posture exercises for shoulder issues, you can empower yourself to regain control of your shoulder health. Remember, consistency and patience are your allies in this journey.
Whether you choose to follow the exercises outlined in this article or seek the personalized guidance of online personal training for shoulder pain with a Mywowfit trainer, prioritize safety and listen to your body every step of the way. Embrace a proactive approach to recovery, and you’ll be well on your way to a stronger, more mobile, and pain-free future.

  • Truly personalized, human coaching
  • Flexible, anytime-anywhere training
  • Lifelong consistency: no burnout, no injuries

1-on-1 Workouts & Custom Fitness Plans with Online Personal Trainer

★★★★★ 4.8 out of 5 across 600+ reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common causes of shoulder pain?
Common causes include shoulder impingement, rotator cuff strains or tears, frozen shoulder, bursitis, osteoarthritis, and poor posture. Repetitive motions, injuries, and age-related wear and tear can contribute to these conditions.

Can I exercise with shoulder pain?
Yes, but with caution. Avoid high-impact activities and overhead movements initially. Focus on gentle mobility and pain-free strengthening exercises, as guided by a healthcare professional or a certified trainer. It’s essential to listen to your body and stop if you experience sharp pain.

Is online personal training effective for shoulder pain recovery?
Yes! Online personal training provides personalized guidance, customized exercise plans, and real-time feedback, making it an effective option for many people. Mywowfit trainers specialize in injury-safe training and can adapt exercises to your specific needs and limitations. This allows you to recover from the comfort of your own home.

How can I improve my posture to alleviate shoulder pain?
Focus on exercises that strengthen your core and back muscles, such as chin tucks, shoulder blade squeezes, and chest stretches. Maintaining good posture throughout the day, especially when sitting at a desk, is also essential.

Responses (6)

  • TINA.J
    Identifying risky moves saved me from making things worse. Life saver!
  • BRODY_SMASH
    day 3 of the mobility exercises and my arm ain’t feeling like a noodle anymore. slow and steady wins the race, fam.
  • Natalie
    Big mood: avoiding bad posture is HARD but this helped me catch myself slouching all day. Posture check reminders? Yes, pls. 🙃
  • DANNY_DOES
    Quick tip — don’t sleep on that strengthening phase. It’s tough but skipping it means you’ll just end up back at square one. Trust me, learned the hard way.
  • no name
    I lowkey laughed at the “don’t push through pain” section. Tried it once. Ended up looking like a walking emoji with the fire 🔥. Lesson learned.
  • Alice
    Posture exercises literally saved my desk-job life. No more shoulder pins and needles while typing 12 hours a day.

References / Sources
  1. Understanding Shoulder Impingement Syndrome: A Comprehensive Overview - osteomag.ca
  2. Safe Stretches for Dislocated Shoulder Recovery - acibademhealthpoint.com

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