Anyone have any good shoulder/back stretching techniques?

hoffma25

I carry my stress in my back, and also work in patient care so I'm always bending, lifting, performing tasks in awkward positions, etc. I find that when I work out, my back is always so stiff. I do the prayer stretch and the downward dog (from yoga), but does anyone have any other tips?

Thanks!

laylaness

If you get (or make out of a styrofoam roll) something like this (http://www.target.com/p/restore-foam-roller-gray-36/-/A-13561587), there are great PT stretches that my SO does after shoulder surgery:

1. Lay on your back, with your butt at the very end
2. With palms facing down, and arms straight at your sides, slowly stretch up toward your head
3. When you get to your head, stretch your arms above your head with palms facing inward and touching. Hold for about 15 seconds.
4. Repeat from your head back down to having your arms by your side, but with your palms facing up

When you are stretching your arms, move up in 15 degree increments and hold each for about 15 seconds.

Hope these help!