Why You Should Add Stretching to Your Normal Routine
The human body is capable of some remarkable things -- as long as its owner takes some basic steps to help maintain that capability. If you find that you cannot move with the agility or reach you once enjoyed, an injury has deprived you of your normal range of motion, or chronic pain makes certain movements difficult, then you need to think about adding regular stretching to your normal routine.
How does stretching help your health? First and foremost, it can restore your former flexibility. Joints and ligaments can stiffen up through lack of use as the muscles that serve them shrink and tighten. Regular stretching encourages the muscle fibers to stay loose and maintain their proper length. Even a tiny difference in your flexibility can make all the difference between, say, walking securely and being prone to falls. Stretching also promotes muscle tone by alternating contracting and relaxing opposed pairs of muscles.
If you suffer from chronic pain, you may find stretching an amazing way to get a grip on that pain without turning to anti-inflammatory drugs. Many chronic pains are caused by inflammation from micro-tears in stiff, tight tissues. You can therefore relieve that pain by lengthening and strengthening your muscles and ligaments -- especially the leg, back and abdominal muscles that control posture. Regular stretching also relieves pent-up stress that builds up within muscle groups, helping you to feel better and cope with daily life more effectively.
Your Resource for Healthy Joints and Ligaments
APEX Wellness Center can help you integrate safe, effective stretching exercises into your normal routine. We will evaluate your current state of health, medical history, and any conditions that might be troubling you. Based on this information, we can recommend specific exercises to help you maintain optimal range of motion, rehabilitate a nagging injury if necessary, and prevent future injuries from occurring. Let us help you stretch your way to wellness!
Do you have a set of morning stretches you like to do regularly? Describe them for our readers!