Physical Therapy Stretching Techniques: Optimize Your Daily Life

Most people know that stretching is an important part of any rehabilitation program. When you’ve injured a limb or are dealing with reduced mobility for any reason, stretches can help you regain full movement. What many do not realize, however, is that stretching should be a part of your everyday routine. A daily regimen of stretches can improve your overall quality of life.

Best Physical Therapy Stretching Tips and Methods

1. PT Stretching Tips for Daily Life

Before you begin a stretching program, perform a Google search for the phrase physical therapy near me. While you can watch a few stretching videos online and take the plunge on your own, a physical therapist will design a program just for you. A licensed PT will evaluate your movements. He or she can determine what areas of your body need the most attention. You will then get a customized plan that can be continually tweaked at subsequent visits.

Important guidelines to remember about stretching include:

• Stretch whenever it works for you. There are no rules about the time of day to stretch.
• Stretching is a form of exercise that helps you with your other activities.
• Stretching can interrupt pain cycles and calm them down.
• Don’t worry if you are not naturally flexible. Stretching can improve your flexibility.
• Flexibility is an important part of developing stronger muscles.

Reach out to local therapy providers like Glendale physical therapy if you live in Glendale, to learn more about stretching and its important role in your life.

2. Optimize Your Day with these Stretching Exercises

Ready to add some stretches to your daily routine? Here are some PT-recommended stretching exercises to get you started.

• Standing Hip Flexor – Stand facing a chair. Place your right foot on the chair and slowly move forward until you feel the stretch in your front hip. Hold for 30 seconds and repeat with the left foot.
• Hamstring Stretch – Lie on your back on the floor. Raise your right leg with hands clasped around the back of your thigh. Pull your knee to your chest. Slowly straighten your leg and hold for 30 seconds. Repeat with the left leg.
• Bridge – Lie on your back on the floor. Bend your knees with your feet close to your buttocks. Squeeze your glutes and raise your buttocks off the floor. Hold for five seconds, then lower. Repeat.
• Lumbar Extension – Stand up straight and put your hands on your lower back. Bend backward as far as is comfortable, arching your lower back. Hold for two or three seconds. Repeat.

You can enjoy greater mobility and balance by doing these stretches or others as supplied by your physical therapist. Begin your path to wellness now. Talk to your medical provider about physical therapy and whether it is right for you. Get references for licensed PTs in your area with a happy clientele.

Conclusion

Remember, that success lies in your compliance. It won’t do much good to visit a physical therapist if you don’t continue the exercises at home. Commit to the regimen to see the results in your daily activities and quality of life.

Also Read: The Negative Physical and Mental Effects of Stress