STRETCHING Stretching is a general term used to describe any therapeutic maneuver designed to increase the extensibility of soft tissues, thereby improving flexibility by elongating(lengthening) structures that have adaptively shortened and have become hypermobile over time.
INDICATIONS ROM is limited because soft tissues have lost their extensibility as the result of adhesions, contractures and scar tissue formation, causing activity or participation restrictions. Restricted motion may lead to structural deformities that are otherwise preventable. Muscle weakness and shortening of opposing tissue have led to limited ROM. May be a component of a total fitness or sport-specific conditioning program designed to prevent or reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injuries. May be used prior to and after vigorous exercise.
CONTRAINDICATIONS A bony block limits joint motion There was a recent fracture and bony reunion is incomplete There is evidence of an acute inflammatory or infectious process(heat and swelling) or soft tissue healing could be disrupted in the restricted tissues and surrounding region There is sharp, acute pain with joint movement or muscle elongation A hematoma or other indication of tissue trauma is observed Joint hypermobility already exists Shortened soft tissues provide necessary joint stability in lieu of normal structural stability or neuromuscular control. Shortened soft tissues enable a patient with paralysis or severe muscle weakness to perform specific functional skills otherwise not possible.
BENEFITS AND OUTCOMES OF STRETCHING Increased flexibility and ROM For general fitness Injury prevention Reduced post-exercise muscle soreness Enhanced performance
DETERMINANTS Alignment : Positioning a limb or the body such that the stretch force is directed to the appropriate muscle group. Stabilization : Fixation of a bony segment that has an attachment of the muscle to be stretched. Intensity of Stretch : Magnitude of the stretch force applied. Duration of Stretch : Length of time the stretch force is applied during a stretch cycle. Speed of stretch: Rate of initial application of the stretch force. Frequency of Stretch: Number of stretching sessions per day or per week. Mode of stretch: Form or manner in which the stretch force is applied or the source of stretch force.
TYPES OF STRETCHING Static stretching Cyclic/Intermittent stretching Ballistic Stretching PNF stretching Manual Stretching Mechanical Stretching Self-Stretching Passive Stretching Active Stretching