Management

Doorway Pectoral Stretch (Flexibility)

Choose a preferred language
  1. Stand in an open doorway. Raise each arm up to the side, bent at 90 ° angles with palms forward. Rest your palms on the door frame. If this is too painful, try moving your elbows down slightly.

  2. Slowly step forward with 1 foot. Feel the stretch in your shoulders and chest. Stand upright and don’t lean forward.

  3. Hold for 15 seconds, or as instructed. Step back and relax.

  4. Repeat 3 times, or as instructed.

Person standing in doorway doing pectoral stretch exercise.

Author: Wheeler, Brooke

Author: Yang, Sue

Online Medical Reviewer: Stacey Wojcik MBA BSN RN

Online Medical Reviewer: Thomas N Joseph MD

Online Medical Reviewer: Trina Bellendir PT

Date Last Reviewed: 01/01/2025

© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
Related Articles
Read article
Orthopedics
Using Crutches: Up and Down Steps

When climbing up and down steps using crutches, remember this rule: Up with the good (unaffected leg) and down with the bad (affected leg). Read on for helpful tips and illustrations.

Read article
Orthopedics
Ankle Dorsiflexion/Plantarflexion (Flexibility)

This exercise helps improve flexibility in the ankles.

Read article
Orthopedics
Upper Body Exercises: Upright Row

This exercise stretches and strengthens your upper body.

Read article
Orthopedics
Standing with Crutches (Non-Weight Bearing)

These images show you how to stand using crutches.