Which measure should be included in teaching to prevent shoulder stiffness for a client with a left arm cast?

Which measure should be included in teaching to prevent shoulder stiffness for a client with a left arm cast?

• A. Keep the left arm in a sling at all times.
• B. Lift the left arm up over the head.
• C. Avoid any shoulder movement.
• D. Do nothing.

Answer: (B)

Moving the shoulder while the arm is immobilized helps prevent stiffness. Even with a cast, keeping the shoulder through gentle ranges preserves flexibility and prevents the joint capsule from tightening. Lifting the arm overhead, usually with the other hand assisting, maintains flexion and elevation range and supports proper shoulder mechanics as healing proceeds. Do this within pain-free limits and avoid pulling on the cast. Keeping the arm in a sling or not moving at all would promote stiffness, and doing nothing wouldn’t help preserve ROM.

Moving the shoulder while the arm is immobilized helps prevent stiffness. Even with a cast, keeping the shoulder through gentle ranges preserves flexibility and prevents the joint capsule from tightening. Lifting the arm overhead, usually with the other hand assisting, maintains flexion and elevation range and supports proper shoulder mechanics as healing proceeds. Do this within pain-free limits and avoid pulling on the cast. Keeping the arm in a sling or not moving at all would promote stiffness, and doing nothing wouldn’t help preserve ROM.