Diabetics have limited shoulder mobility and higher prevalence of shoulder pain and injuries due to accumulation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) in soft tissue around the joint. AGEs stiffen collagen fibers, thereby limiting joint mobility and increasing risk of soft tissue lesions. Shoulder exercises can improve shoulder mobility, strength, and ability to perform activities of daily living. However, it is unknown if diabetes affect individuals’ responses to exercises. PURPOSE: To compare the effects of 7-week shoulder exercise program on shoulder range of motion (ROM), strength, and function between diabetics/pre-diabetics and non-diabetics. METHODS: Shoulder ROM, strength, and function were measured pre/post 7-week exercise intervention. Shoulder internal rotation (IR) and external rotation (ER) ROM were measured using a digital inclinometer. Muscle strength (elevation, retraction, IR, and ER) were measured using a handheld dynamometer. Shoulder function was assessed using Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) and Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI). The improvements in variables in two groups were compared using mix-model ANOVAs. Participants with low compliance (<70%) or complaints of shoulder pain at the beginning/during the study period were excluded. METHODS: A total of 6 diabetics/pre-diabetics and 8 non-diabetics were included in the analyses. There were no significant group differences in intervention effects. In both groups, intervention resulted in improved ER ROM (p=.002), IR (p=.004) and ER strength (p=.010), DASH (p=.010) and SPADI (p=.025) scores. All four participants who were excluded due to shoulder pain were diabetics/pre-diabetics, but they were older (69.8±7.8 years) compared to the rest of the participants (55.1±8.2 years). DISCUSSION: Shoulder exercises were beneficial in improving shoulder mobility, strength, and function in diabetics and non-diabetics alike. Four participants with diabetes/pre-diabetes complained of shoulder pain at the beginning/during the study. However, this is likely attributed to the higher prevalence of shoulder pain in diabetics and in older individuals. Introduction of routine shoulder exercises at a younger age may be beneficial in improving shoulder function, regardless of individuals’ diabetes status.