Self-stretching techniques in physiotherapy, including their methods, indications, contraindications, precautions and role in improving flexibility and range of motion.
Definition
According to Kisner, Colby, and Borstad (2018), Any stretching exercise that is carried out independently by a patient after instruction and supervision by a therapist is referred to as self-stretching.
Self-stretching is a therapeutic exercise technique in which an individual independently applies a stretching force to their own muscles and surrounding soft tissues to improve or maintain flexibility and range of motion.
Sometimes also called as active stretching, flexibility exercises
Indications
- Restricted range of motion due to shortened muscles or surrounding soft tissues.
- Soft-tissue adhesions and scar tissue that restrict movement, after appropriate assessment.
- Reversible muscle contractures that limit functional activities.
- Muscle tightness associated with prolonged immobilization or reduced movement.
- Shortening of opposing soft tissues that contributes to restricted joint movement.
- Prevention or management of potentially avoidable deformities caused by restricted soft-tissue mobility.
- Reduced flexibility affecting occupational, recreational, or sporting activities.
- Maintenance of flexibility and range of motion following physiotherapy treatment.
- Selected rehabilitation programmes in which stretching supports functional recovery.
Contraindications
- Bony block: Joint movement is restricted by bone, and stretching cannot safely correct the obstruction.
- Unhealed fracture: Bone healing is incomplete and stretching may disrupt the healing process.
- Acute inflammation or infection: The affected region has marked heat, swelling, or other signs of an acute inflammatory or infectious process.
- Acute injury or tissue trauma: Stretching may aggravate a recent muscle tear, ligament injury, or other tissue damage.
- Sharp or severe pain: Joint movement or muscle elongation produces sharp, acute pain.
- Haematoma: Bleeding within soft tissues or significant bruising indicates tissue trauma requiring assessment.
- Joint hypermobility: Excessive joint mobility is already present and additional stretching may increase instability.
- Healing tissues at risk: Stretching may disrupt a surgical repair or the healing of injured tissues.
- Functional dependence on shortened tissues: Some shortened muscles provide essential stability or help a person perform necessary functional activities, particularly when muscle weakness or paralysis is present. Stretching these tissues may reduce functional ability.
Reference:
- Kisner C, Colby LA, Borstad J. Therapeutic Exercise: Foundations and Techniques. 7th ed. Philadelphia: F.A. Davis; 2018.
- Magee DJ. Orthopedic Physical Assessment. 7th ed. St. Louis: Elsevier; 2021.
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