![]() Please seek guidance from a physical therapist or other medical professional prior to initiating a stretching routine to decrease injury risk. Depending on the patient and clinician preference, some stretches may be more effective than others. Both active and passive stretching are effective in increasing muscle flexibility. In conclusion, stretching is an important component of both physical therapy treatment and a comprehensive exercise program. It is recommended that each stretch be held for 15-30 seconds and repeated 2 to 4 times. The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recommends individuals perform passive or active stretching, following a light aerobic warm-up at least 2 to 3 days per week. The amount of time you need to spend stretching depends on your goals and your therapist. Clinically, stretching is often prescribed twice daily over a 6-8 week period for maximum gains. So which is best?īased on these studies, 6-8 weeks of active or passive stretching is effective in improving hamstring flexibility. Interestingly enough, at the 8 week mark, one of the groups performing passive hamstring stretching showed the most improvement in hamstring flexibility. ![]() However, the two active stretching groups showed the greatest improvement. At the 4 week mark, 3 of the groups (two performing active hamstring stretches, one performing passive stretches) showed improvement in hamstring flexibility. Study results determined both active and passive stretching is effective in increasing hamstring flexibility. ![]() The study assessed the participants’ hamstring flexibility at 4 and 8 weeks following initiation of stretching. Four different techniques were used: two active hamstring stretches and two passive hamstring stretches. (2010) compared active stretching of the hamstring versus passive stretching in another high quality study. Results demonstrated the active stretching group maintained a 6 degree ROM improvement, while the passive stretching group didn’t maintain any significant change. The group who performed active stretching of the hamstrings had a significant increase in ROM compared to the passive stretching group.Ī portion of the initial group was reevaluated 4 weeks following the conclusion of the study. The study assessed hamstring flexibility following 3 and 6 weeks of stretching. (2010) compared active stretching to passive stretching of the hamstrings. On the other hand, active stretching involves purposefully contracting the muscle you are trying to stretch. ³ This force may be a partner assist, a strap, gravity, or one’s body weight. Passive stretching is defined as a form of stretching where an outside force is applied to a limb. Researchers choose the hamstring muscles to study because their length is easy to measure, and many people in the general population have tight hamstrings. Recent research on stretching focuses on the difference between passive versus active stretching. ![]() What works for some patients may not work for others, even if they are being treated for something similar. Gender, pain, orthopedic issues, ability to move, and compliance all play a role. Stretching is a beneficial part of any exercise routine, but the best type of stretching is controversial. Because of this, stretching is an important part of a comprehensive exercise program for overall health. Stretching also decreases pain associated with musculoskeletal conditions like arthritis or overuse. It increases muscle length, promotes alignment of muscle fibers, and improves joint range of motion (ROM). Stretching is an integral part of physical therapy treatment at In Motion Physical Therapy.
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