Common Stretches We Probably Shouldn’t Be Using

As a society, we have been told for years that stretching is an important part of staying flexible, injury-free, and healthy. However, not all stretches are created equally. In fact, there are some stretches that experts believe we should avoid altogether. In this blog post, we will explore some of the most common stretches we should probably stop doing and why. If you're looking for Physiotherapy in Winter Park, FL, contact B Physical Therapy today to schedule an appointment.

1. Touching Your Toes

Touching your toes is a popular stretch that is often done to improve hamstring flexibility. However, this stretch can actually cause damage to your spine over time. Instead of bending forward at the waist and reaching for your toes, try sitting down and placing your feet together while pressing your knees down towards the floor. This is a safer way to work on your hamstring flexibility without risking long-term damage to your spine.

2. The Seated Twist

A seated twist is a common yoga pose that is used to stretch the spine and improve flexibility. However, it can also put unnecessary pressure on your spine and neck, leading to discomfort and possible injury. Instead of sitting and twisting your upper body towards the back of the room, try standing and twisting from side to side with your arms extended out in front of you. This will help to loosen up your spine without adding stress to your neck and back.

3. The Butterfly Stretch

The butterfly stretch is often done to improve hip flexibility. However, this stretch can be harmful if done incorrectly. Sitting and forcefully pushing your legs down towards the floor can cause damage to your knees and hips over time. Instead, try lying on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Place your hands on your hips and bring your knees towards your chest, allowing your hips to open up naturally.

4. The Neck Roll

The neck roll is a common stretch that is often done to relieve tension in the neck and shoulders. However, this stretch can actually cause more harm than good. Rolling your neck in a circular motion can put stress on the delicate muscles and joints in your neck, leading to discomfort and possible injury. Instead, try holding your head in a static position and gently tilting it from side to side for a few seconds at a time.

5. The Shoulder Stretch

The shoulder stretch is often done by bringing one arm across the chest and pushing it towards the body with the opposite arm. While this stretch can feel good, it can also lead to discomfort and possible injury. Pushing too hard or too quickly can cause damage to the muscles and joints in your shoulder. Instead, try gentle shoulder rotations to warm up the muscles before attempting any static stretching.

Conclusion

In conclusion, stretching is an important part of staying flexible and injury-free, but not all stretches are created equally. Understanding which stretches to avoid and why can help you prevent long-term damage to your body. If you're looking for Physiotherapy in Winter Park, FL, contact B Physical Therapy today to schedule an appointment and learn more about safe stretching practices.