Scapular retraction and shoulder rolls are a great way to improve posture and prepare a cancer survivor for an exercise routine. Have your client hold their arms at their sides with elbows bent to create a 90 degree angle. Firmly squeeze the shoulder blades together and draw the shoulders and elbows back. Focus on squeezing the shoulder blades together as if trying to hold a walnut between them, then release to the starting position. For the shoulder roll, raise the shoulders up toward the ears, while inhaling slowly for five seconds. Slowly roll the shoulders backward and press them all the way back down, while exhaling slowly for five seconds. Increase the size of the circle with each roll.
