Stretch It Out!

Did you know a daily stretching routine can have multiple benefits, including better flexibility, improved range-of-motion, increased circulation, a calmer mind – and may even reduce chronic pain symptoms? No matter your fitness level, stretching can improve your health, and the best part is that it doesn’t have to take very long each day to get benefits.

At OSR Physical Therapy, our team works with patients on a one-on-one basis to create stretching programs that address specific problems. For example, these programs may include stretches to help rehabilitate an injury, or to loosen tight hamstrings for those with chronic back pain.

Stretching on a regular basis can decrease the risk of injury, improve balance and postural issues, and increase coordination. Muscle tension is generally decreased, and those with low back pain often find that their symptoms improve after following a consistent program. For those who exercise regularly, adding stretching program to your workout can help increase movement efficiency and performance.

While a specifically targeted program is best, even just a generalized stretching program can have tremendous health benefits!

Before you start stretching, there are some safety tips:

• Stretch gently, and don’t bounce in an effort to stretch further.
• If it’s painful, you’ve stretched too far.
• Each stretch should be held for about 30 seconds on each side.
• Remember to breathe slowly and steadily while stretching – don’t hold your breath!

Call or visit any OSR Physical Therapy location to find out more about how stretching can help your chronic pain condition or athletic performance!