Shoulder Rolls: In unison, roll your shoulders slowly forward in a circular motion, bringing them down, back and upward again, for about 20-30 seconds every two hours or so.

Wrist Pulls: Raising both arms above the head, clasp your right wrist with your left hand and lean/stretch slightly to the left, holding the position for about 10 seconds. Then, grab your left wrist with your right hand and repeat, leaning slightly to the right. Repeat this sequence about five times.

Shoulder Stretches: Holding your right hand above your left shoulder, grasp your right elbow with your left hand and stretch the right arm across your torso to the left, holding for about 10 seconds. Release and repeat, holding the left hand above your right shoulder, grasping your left elbow with your right hand and pulling across your torso to the right.

Neck Rolls: Drop your chin forward and tuck it against your neck. Slowly, roll your head in a large circle moving clockwise. After completing the circle and bringing your head back forward, reverse and roll your head in a large counterclockwise circle. You should be moving your head slowly enough to stretch the muscles for five seconds in any given direction.

Resting Stretches

When you are bedridden because of hospitalization or long-term illness, the risk of developing a blood clot can increase dramatically. Luckily, there are stretches and exercises you can perform even from bed that will keep your circulation flowing and lower your risk of developing a clot:

Resting Foot Pumps: Just like the foot pumps performed in a chair, you should stretch your toes upward toward your head, holding for five seconds,then point your toes downward, holding for five seconds. Perform 15 repetitions every hour or so.