Muscle Stretching

• Akkradate Siriphorn
Oct 22th, 2010
Myofascial pain

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 Muscle
shorthening

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 Why stretch?

Muscle shortening decrease flexibility and range of motion

↑ intramuscular pressure

↓ circulation

Disturbance in metabolism

Accumulation of waste product Activation of pain receptor

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STRETCHING

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 Definition

• Muscle Stretching
– A general term used to describe any therapeutic maneuver
designed to lengthen shorted muscles.

• Goals
1. To relieve myofascial pain
2. To increase flexibility
3. To prevent irreversible contractures
4. To prevent muscle injuries related to physical activities

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Types of muscle stretching

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 How to stretch?

• Lengthen the muscle as far as possible

• Relax !!
• Without excessive stress on joint
• Within pain tolerance
• Breathing with stretching

• 15 - 30 seconds stretch, 3 - 4 repetitions, 2 - 3 times/day

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 Precaution

• Do not stretching beyond normal joint range of motion

• Use extra caution in patient with osteoporosis
• Avoid vigorous stretching of muscles that have been
immobilized over a long period of time
 low intensity, long duration of stretch
• Avoid stretching edematous tissue
 continued irritation
 increase pain and edema
• Avoid overstretching weak muscle

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 Contraindications

• After recent fracture

• Whenever there is evidence of an acute inflammatory or

infectious process (heat and swelling) in or around joints

• Whenever there is a sharp, acute pain with joint movement

or muscle elongation

• When hematoma or other indication of tissue trauma is

observed
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PRACTICE

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Upper trapezius

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Gastrosoleus muscle

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HOME WORK

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Home work

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 THANK YOU FOR
YOUR ATTENTION

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