Feeling Stiff or Sore? Stretching Will Help
By Sandy Schroeder
Stretching has always been important but now it may be even more crucial as many of us sit up to 10 hours a day.
If you often feel stiff and sore after a day in front of the computer, and an evening on the couch, stretching may be a lifesaver.
Harvard Health Outlines Key Benefits.
- Keep your muscles limber
- Increase your range of motion
- Improve your posture
- Avoid falls
Look What Tightness Does
Tight leg muscles - If you sit too much, your stride may be shortened. Inflexible hamstrings may change the tilt of the pelvis and impact the joints in the lower back. Performance on the court or on the green may suffer with knee pain or muscle strains. Tight arm and side muscles - You may feel the difference when you reach up to the top shelf, or bend down to tie your shoes. Household tasks may take twice as long with little chores become real work.
Tight ankle and calf muscles - A slight stumble may turn into a real tumble as tightness trips you up.
Tight neck muscles - When you are driving, biking or out walking, it may be harder to look behind you. It may be painful or almost impossible to swivel your head.
Tight chest muscles - Your shoulders may be pulled forward as you hunch over when you sit or stand up, Your posture will suffer and your whole body will be impacted.
Put Stretching Into Play
Always check with your doctor before beginning new exercises. At the same time, reduce the risk of injury with these smart stretching tips.
First warm up - Muscles stretch more easily when you do a few warm-ups. Dance around the room, march in place or swing your arms around.
Stop if there is pain - Stretch only to the point of mild tension and work gradually to regain flexibility.
Breathe while you stretch - Never hold your breath while stretching. That can drive blood pressure up
Stretch frequently - Your body will gain flexibility if you stretch at least two to three times a week.
You will know your stretching is paying off when your body feels light and limber at home, at work and at play. Enjoy the flexibility and keep right on going at work, at home and at play.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Maple Grove, Minn.