5 Benefits of Stretching Regularly

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Stretching routines are nothing new and are often discussed - but do people ever truly add them into their daily lives? The likely answer is no, but with current research and various common ailments it may be time to reconsider this decision and add stretching routines to your daily life.

Who should have a stretching routine?

While stretching can benefit anyone it can be especially beneficial for those coping with various neck and back pains or injuries - including chronic pain or conditions, for those who regularly exercise/athletes, and for adults to promote mobility as they age.

What are the general benefits of stretching regularly?

1. Reducing and alleviating tension in muscles - especially the muscles that support the spine. When these become tense, they can often cause or worsen pain within the back and related conditions.
2. Improving range of motion and mobility. This is essential for areas of the body that often become tight, but also in order to help cope with the aging process. As you age, you tend to lose range of motion which tends to a more sedentary lifestyle and can cause other spinal & back conditions.
3. Injury prevention. Stretching allows for increased blood supply and oxygen throughout your muscles and joints which can help with circulation throughout the body - reducing your chance for injuries. Those who regularly exercise, participate in sport activities, or who are aging are at greater risk for injuries. It is important to both prepare your body for any upcoming activities, but also to stretch after such activities to ensure your muscles heal properly.
4. Better Posture. Most of the population’s lives are centered around sitting for a “9am-5pm” work day, and sitting at home to relax. Looking at various screens and trying to remain comfortable can be challenging for long periods of time and can often throw our posture off. Doing opposing stretches can help alleviate the issues caused by poor posture, and can help to realign the body to promote better posture for longer periods of time.
5. Stress Relief. When our bodies become “stressed out” our heart rate often increases and our muscles tense up. Stretching works to counteract this behavior by relaxing tigh muscles, taking personal care time to relax and focus on slow breathing and slow us down altogether. This can be a time for your body to decompress and reset which is beneficial for both the body and mind.

Whether you are young and consistently exercising, or are an adult looking to relieve pain and promote mobility, it is important for everyone to develop a regular stretching routine to help cope with life’s stressors on both the body and mind.

If you’d like to learn more about the benefits of a stretching routine, suggestions, and ask a Pain Medicine & Rehabilitation Physician specific questions, register for a free upcoming “Doc Talk” webinar on this topic here. The webinar will take place on YouTube and is scheduled for Wednesday, 2/23 at 12:15pm. All are welcome and encouraged to bring any related questions!

Register for Webinar

More about Pennsylvania Pain and Spine

Phone Number: (215) 395-8888
Website: https://www.pennpain.com

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Suite #102B
Chalfont, PA 18914

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Quakertown, PA 18951

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