The Benefits of Stretching

Stretching the muscles is beneficial for a number of reasons.

It can improve the joint range of motion, enhance muscle ability of loading, decrease the risk of injury and enable the muscles to work more effectively. If the muscle shortens and tightens, it will not be able to extend all the way for the full range of motion and will become unable to load while it lengthens.

Below, Dr. Murphy with Stamford Spine is answer commonly asked questions about the benefits of stretching.

How often should I stretch?

You should stretch every day. It can help you break down the formation of trigger points. 30 seconds of stretching, at least in one position.

How do I know what body parts to stretch?

This depends on the daily activities you spend the most time doing. If you are sitting all day, neck, chest, mid-bacl and low back can feel good after stretching. On the other hand, if you are standing all day, you should stretch your hips and below.

When is a good time to stretch?

Whenever a muscle gives you the signal. A signal may be when you start to feel tension or soreness in the muscle. The muscles stay in one position for a long period of time, even if you don't feel any discomfort.

What are the benefits I can see from stretching?

The benefits of stretching include improving the joint range of motion, enhancing the muscle ability of loading, decreasing the risk of injury and enabling the muscles to work more effectively.

What are the benefits of having someone else, like a chiropractor or athletic trainer stretch you?

The sensor in the muscle will be protected by the signal transport through the brain. Sometimes, the muscle can still be elongated, but the protective system of the brain will stop you from going further. Passive stretching can elibinate the barrier from the brain. Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation is the advance stretching technique that will require a care giver to provide the muscles. Stretching is also a good elevation of the joint. The care giver can have a quick view of the integrity of the joint by the end feeling of the stretching.

Learn More!

To schedule an appointment or if you have questions about dealing with a stiff neck, call Stamford Spine at (203) 580-3232.

Find information here about what to expect during your first visit. Initial visits last one hour so that we have time to thoroughly assess your complaints and determine the best course of action. This initial evaluation helps us to determine the specific cause of your symptoms. From there, we will develop a unique treatment plan tailored to helping you heal as quickly as possible.