Elbow Flexion and Extension

Elbow Flexion and Extension

Purpose: Maintain elbow motion to prevent stiffness and support functional use of the arm.

Equipment: None; optional light weight later.

How to do it:
1) Sit or stand with your arm supported if needed.
2) Slowly bend the elbow, bringing the hand toward the shoulder.
3) Then straighten the elbow fully (without locking painfully).
4) Keep the shoulder relaxed and avoid swinging.

Dosage: 5 sets of 10 reps (or seconds/holds if that is how your therapist prescribed it). Rest 30–60 seconds between sets.

Progression:
- Add a light weight or resistance band as cleared.
- Combine with forearm rotation exercises for full arm mobility.

Comfort and safety:
Move slowly and stay in a comfortable range. A mild stretch or light muscle fatigue is okay; sharp pain is not.
Stop and contact your care team if you notice increasing swelling, redness, warmth, drainage, fever, or new/worsening numbness/tingling.
Follow any post-op precautions, lifting limits, and motion restrictions given by your surgeon or therapist.