How Shoulder Pulleys Help Healing and Range of Motion

Nobody wants to suffer a shoulder injury. They're never enjoyable, and they're always inconvenient. When a patient comes to their doctor with a shoulder problem, they're already suffering from discomfort and/or bodily restrictions. Another stress on top of that. The good news is that people who need medical attention are motivated to find a solution. They are more inclined to follow treatment instructions from their physical therapist when they know that a physical therapy program can aid in the healing process and improve the outcome.

The success of home therapy is often challenged owing to poor patient compliance with prescribed activities. However, there are measures that a therapist may take to enhance adherence, and finding activities that are both helpful and simple to execute.

There are many ways a shoulder might get injured, and for many of these problems, shoulder pulleys are just what the doctor prescribed. Patients can easily use these exercise equipment at home without assistance because they are affordable, effective, and simple to use.

What Is A Shoulder Pulley Good For?

The main concern regarding shoulder issues is the maintenance or improvement of range of motion (ROM). Another consideration is the desire to avoid aggravating or exacerbating any existing injuries. Passive range of motion exercises are a popular therapy among physical therapists, in which the patient fully relaxes their muscles while the therapist manually moves the injured limb to enable it to safely go through its range of motion. This helps to prevent stiffness and scar tissue from forming while allowing the surrounding muscles, bones, and ligaments to rest and heal.

Fortunately, shoulder pulleys allow patients to do the same range of motion exercises at home alone, at work.

Four Conditions that Shoulder Pulleys Can Help Heal

A shoulder pulley is the most useful during the phases of rehabilitation. Still, shoulder pulleys may be used for a variety of injuries, and they can benefit patients and therapists who are looking to enhance exercise compliance and boost recovery chances.

Fractures— A fracture of the clavicle or humerus will necessitate extended shoulder immobilization at the very least, if not surgery. This is a typical scenario in which passive range of motion exercises are required. To avoid re-injury, you must keep the arm in a sling. However, this immobilization might result in ROM loss. Passive range-of-motion (ROM) exercises can now be started once the condition has stabilized enough for passive ROM training.

Rotator Cuff Injuries â€” Like fractures, rotator cuff injuries needs time to heal. Whether it's bursitis, tendonitis, or tears, whether the damage is bad enough to require surgery or not, immobilization will be required — thus some passive range of motion exercise as a counterbalance. Are shoulder pulleys a safe and effective means of ROM for rotator cuff injuries? YES!

Shoulder Replacement Surgery — For severe injuries, total shoulder replacement surgery may be the ideal alternative. Once again, rest is necessary for recovery, which necessitates a full range of motion rehabilitation. This surgery is successful in most cases. Passive range-of-motion exercises (such as shoulder pulleys) may be prescribed for the first two months after surgery.

Adhesive Capsulitis (Frozen Shoulder) — Unlike the previous three cases, shoulder immobilization is not a treatment for adhesive capsulitis; rather, it's a symptom. Over time, as the joint stiffens and loses range of motion, your shoulder pain will lessen. However, years can pass before the ailment is healed. However, passive range of motion exercises and joint mobilization are critical for recovery. It's a lengthy process made considerably easier when the patient is able to use a shoulder pulley whenever they need it.

Using A Shoulder Pulley for Increased Range of Motion
Rest and immobilization are crucial for many shoulder problems. However, immobility can lead to stiffness and range of motion restrictions. Patients will be able to use shoulder pulley equipment safely and effectively if they get the right training from a physical therapist. Patients will be able to replicate passive range of motion exercises at their leisure, as often as directed by the physical therapist, using these devices.

Patients are more likely to follow their therapy regimen if they receive adequate training and have access to a shoulder pulley, resulting in better results for both patients and therapists.

Here are the top picks 8 for shoulder pulley: 

Vive Shoulder Pulley ($14.99) - Made with a durable metal casing, the nylon pulley wheel allows the rope to move freely and smoothly throughout the workout. Comes with 60-day money-back guarantee

RangeMaster PullEasy Shoulder Pulley with Patient Guide ($20.27) - Included metal bracket attachment makes it easy to attach the pulley system to the top of the door. Both sides of the bracket are padded with foam or a plastic sleeve. This one comes with grip free sling that allows you to relax your shoulder joint completely during exercise making it a great tool for after surgery recovery. Comes with 60-day money-back guarantee.

RangeMaster Molded Rubber Handle Shoulder Pulley ($20.97) - Custom-designed pulley with a zinc-coated metal housing that won’t melt or deform over time and a self-lubricating nylon roller that won't squeak when used. Molded rubber handle provides comfort to your hands while using. It comes with a free Exercise Guide and a 60-day money-back guarantee.

Lifeline Multi-Use Shoulder Pulley ($15.21) - Lifeline’s patented Grip-All Handle includes a rotating comfort foam handle to decrease joint strain.

Fanwer Shoulder Pulley ($14.98) - Made with a high quality stainless steel , for long lasting use. The smooth pulley wheel allows the rope to move freely and smoothly throughout the workout.

BlueRanger Shoulder Pulley with Patient Guide ($13.97) - Made with a forged aluminum pulley with zinc-coated housing that will not bend or deform over time. The nylon web strap that extends over the door hanger makes it simple to hang the pulley system above any closed door. It's accompanied by a patient handbook and a 60-day money-back guarantee.

BodyHealt Overhead Shoulder Pulley ($19.49) - Comfortable Workout Equipment. Large foam handles offer optimal comfort and a firm grip when you’re exercising.

Econo Ranger Shoulder Pulley ($15.17) - Made with a custom pulley with zinc-coated housing to resist deformation over time. Wooden handles allow easy adjustability of the 85-inch cord to ensure comfort and easy use. It comes with a 60-day money-back guarantee.

X-hero Shoulder Pulley ($16.98) - The adjustable rope length offers custom fit and versatility, and the soft foam handles provide superior comfort during use.

PinkRanger Shoulder Pulley ($13.97) - PinkRanger contains a custom-designed pulley. Included nylon web strap over door hanger makes it easy to attach the pulley system over the top of any closed door. It comes with a patient guide and a 60-day money-back guarantee.

The Verdict

"The RangeMaster shoulder pulley is an affordable, effective, and great tool to have for those who require an extra range of motion for their shoulder. I really like the molded rubber handle as it makes it more comfortable to grip and use. The pulley system is also very smooth, which makes it easier to use. Overall, I highly recommend this product!"