Management

Standing Scapular Pinch

Choose a preferred language

  1. Stand up straight. Raise each arm up to the side, bent at 90-degree angles with palms forward. This can also be performed with your hands at your side with your palms facing your thigh or forward.

  2. Squeeze your shoulders back, making sure you do not shrug your shoulders at the same time, pushing your shoulder blades toward each other. Hold for 5 seconds, or as instructed.

  3. Relax. Repeat 5 times, or as instructed.

Exercise showing man's back with arms bent at elbows, pinching shoulder blades together.

Author: Wheeler, Brooke

Author: Yang, Sue

Online Medical Reviewer: Daphne Pierce-Smith RN MSN

Online Medical Reviewer: Elizabeth Oswald PT DPT

Online Medical Reviewer: Rajadurai Samnishanth Researcher

Date Last Reviewed: 09/01/2024

© 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
Back Safety: Poor Posture Hurts

An unhealthy spine often starts with bad habits. Poor movement patterns and posture problems are common causes of back pain. Disk, bone, nerve, and soft tissue problems can all be affected by poor posture.

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
Pelvic Tilt (Strength)

Follow these step-by-step instructions for a pelvic tilt.

Read article
Orthopedics
Isotonic Shoulder Abduction (Strength)

Follow the step-by-step instructions for this shoulder exercise.

NCQA Certified
URAC Certified