Elbow Stretches

Written by Tele Demetrious, Physiotherapist, BPhysio(Hons)
Reviewed by Brett Harrop, APA Sports Physiotherapist, BPhysio(Hons), MPhysio(Sports Physio) Updated:

Exercises > Flexibility > Elbow Stretches

The following elbow stretches are designed to restore movement to the elbow and improve flexibility of muscles crossing the elbow. If you are injured, you should discuss the suitability of these elbow stretches with your physiotherapist prior to beginning them. Generally, they should be performed 3 times daily provided they do not cause or increase pain.

Elbow Stretches – Basic Exercises

Elbow Bend to Straighten

Bend and straighten your elbow as far as possible pain-free (figure 1). Repeat 10 – 20 times.

Elbow bend to straighten exercise

Figure 1 – Elbow Bend to Straighten (left side)

Forearm Rotation

Begin with your elbow at your side and bent to 90 degrees (figure 2). Turn your palm up and down as far as possible pain-free. Repeat 10 – 20 times.

Elbow Stretches - Pronation Supination

Figure 2 – Forearm rotation (right side)

Elbow Stretches – Advanced Exercises

Elbow Extension

Place your elbow on the edge of a bench or table (figure 3). Straighten your elbow using your other hand until you feel a mild to moderate stretch pain-free. Repeat 10 – 20 times.

Elbow Extension Exercise

Figure 3 – Elbow Extension (right side)

Elbow Stretches – Less Common Exercises

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