The Forward Elevation Stretch, also known as the passive GH Joint - Flexion stretch, is a rudimentary used to release tension/ elongate the Inferior Glenohumeral Joint Capsule . Given its gentle nature and the soft-tissues involved, this stretch may be relevant in the initial phases of treatment for pathologies such as Adhesive Capsulitis , Subacromial Impingement , Rotator Cuff Pathology, Glenohumeral Joint Osteoarthritis and following immobilisation or surgery.
Starting Position:
Patient typically lies supine
Therapist or patients opposing hand grasp the arm to be stretched at the Humerus at The Elbows end
The passive stretch is then performed by gently drawing the Humerus into GH Joint - Flexion as tolerated by the patient.
Standing
Active
Active with Overpressure
For this movement pattern, the Forward Flexion Stretch is about as rudimentary as it gets.
The following Stretching techniques may be used as a progression to the Forward Flexion Stretch once proficiency is achieved:
Standing/ Active variations described above
Shoulder External Rotation Stretch - rudimentary active resisted stretch with large moderate to large GH Joint - External Rotation range and several variations
Door Frame Shoulder Stretch - self-guided anterior shoulder stretch with large Horizontal GH Joint - Abduction range
Shoulder Dislocates - mobility exercise that emphasises the greatest circumduction range possible
Bretzel 1.0 - wholebody technical stretch that incorporates anterior shoulder
Bretzel 2.0 - variation with greater hip extension range
Wheel Pose - full bridge variation that lengthens entire anterior chain
Shepet, K. H., Liechti, D. J., & Kuhn, J. E. (2021). Nonoperative treatment of chronic, massive irreparable rotator cuff tears: a systematic review with synthesis of a standardized rehabilitation protocol. Journal of shoulder and elbow surgery, 30(6), 1431–1444. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jse.2020.11.002