Poor stretching can cause injury; understand

While it offers health benefits, inadequate stretching can cause some harm.

THE elongation It is an essential practice for improving flexibility and overall well-being. However, many people make mistakes when stretching, such as forcing the muscle beyond its natural limit, stretching injured areas without guidance, or making sudden movements. These mistakes can overload joints and muscles, resulting in pulled muscles, tendonitis, or even more serious injuries.

Although incorrect stretching can be harmful to your health, if done correctly it brings numerous benefits. “In addition to improving flexibility, it helps increase blood flow to the muscles, reduces tension and improves posture,” says Cleber Furlan, an orthopedic doctor and member of the Brazilian Society of Orthopedics and Traumatology (SBOT). “Preferring dynamic stretching before training and static stretching at the end of the activity is a recommended practice,” he emphasizes.

Even with so many positives, you need to be aware of the warning signs. Your doctor says that if you feel sharp pain during or after stretching, swelling, stiffness in your joints, or a popping sensation, it’s important to stop practicing immediately. “These symptoms indicate that something is wrong and could be the sign of a developing injury,” warns Furlan.

Furthermore, the lack of an adequate warm-up is also one of the factors that most contribute to the appearance of injuries during stretching. “When you perform movements without the necessary preparation, the body becomes vulnerable to trauma that could easily be avoided,” explains Furlan.

Safe stretching

To stretch safely, the specialist recommends carrying out preventive tests in order to identify possible restrictions. “It is essential to avoid stretching injured or painful areas without the guidance of a professional,” says the doctor, who also emphasizes the importance of respecting the body’s limits, never pushing beyond what is comfortable.

People with specific conditions, such as pre-existing injuries, chronic joint problems, such as arthritis, or degenerative diseases, such as herniated discs, should take extra care when stretching. In these cases it is essential to consult an orthopedist to adapt the exercises to your needs. Stretching with awareness and attention to your body is the key to enjoying all the benefits of this practice without unnecessary risks.

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.