Many people turn to stretching to alleviate pain, especially in the back. However, while stretching may feel good at the time, it may not be a smart practice for those looking to recover their structural health. A review published in the Cochrane Library in 2011 found insufficient evidence to support stretching as a treatment for back pain. Furthermore, stretching can decrease muscle strength and power, making athletes more prone to injury, as a study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research in 2014 found.

Another study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research in 2014 found that stretching before exercise did not improve sports performance and may even reduce it. The researchers suggested that stretching may decrease muscle strength and power, making athletes more prone to injury.

In terms of back pain specifically, a study published in the Journal of Sport Rehabilitation in 2017 found that stretching alone was not effective in reducing back pain in athletes. The study’s authors suggested that a more comprehensive treatment approach, including exercise, manual therapy, and education, may be more effective in managing back pain in athletes.

Another study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy in 2018 found that stretching may not be effective for preventing low back pain in office workers. The study’s authors suggested that more research is needed to determine the most effective ways to prevent and manage low back pain in this population.

Overall, while stretching may have benefits for flexibility and range of motion, there is limited evidence to support its use as a treatment for back pain or as a performance enhancer in sports. In some cases, stretching may even increase the risk of injury or reduce sports performance.

So, what can we do instead of stretching? Advanced Biostructural Correction (ABC™) is a technique that addresses the underlying cause of tight muscles, which is often a misaligned spine or joints. By correcting these misalignments, ABC can release tension in the muscles without the need for stretching. In fact, ABC™ practitioners often discourage stretching, as it can disrupt the progress made during treatment and potentially undo the correction.

Stretching tight muscles can also be harmful because the tightness is often part of a compensation pattern that keeps the body stable. When you stretch those muscles, you may disrupt that stability, leaving your body more prone to injury. ABC™, on the other hand, can address the mechanical imbalances in your body that lead to the need for compensation tightness in the first place. With enhanced structural balance, your body can let go of its recurrent muscular tightness and regain its stability.

In conclusion, while stretching may benefit flexibility and range of motion, it also feels great, but it may not be the best solution for tight muscles or back pain. Even if stretching makes you feel better, usually a few hours later, the tightness has returned, because your body needs it rebuilt again to regain stability. Advanced Biostructural Correction™ is a technique that can address the underlying cause of tight muscles without stretching. It may even be more effective in managing pain and preventing injury. Suppose you’re considering stretching or seeking treatment for back pain. In that case, it’s important to consult with a medical professional or an ABC™ practitioner to determine the best course of action for your specific needs.

Thank you for learning more about the importance of structural health and how we can help you achieve optimal well-being. If you’re ready to take the first step towards a pain-free life and improved posture, please get in touch with us. We offer comprehensive BioStructural assessments to identify the root cause of your pain or posture problems, and our experienced team will tailor a treatment program to meet your unique needs. Call us today at 02089414410 to schedule a consultation, or visit our website at www.spinecentral.co.uk/apply to apply directly. Let’s work together to help you feel your best!

References:

1. Poitras, S., et al. “Non-surgical Interventions for Low Back Pain: An Overview of Systematic Reviews and Randomized Controlled Trials.” The Cochrane Library, 2011.
2. Behm, D. G., et al. “Acute effects of muscle stretching on physical performance, range of motion, and injury incidence in healthy active individuals: A systematic review.” Applied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism, 2016, vol. 41, no. 1, pp. 1-11.
3. Sato, K., et al. “The efficacy of stretching for prevention of low back pain in office workers: a randomized controlled trial.” Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy, 2018, vol. 48, no. 7, pp. 539-547.
4. Brown, D. R., et al. “Effect of pre-exercise stretching on the incidence of musculoskeletal injury in adolescent athletes: a randomized clinical trial.” Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 2014, vol. 28, no. 10, pp. 2920-2926.
5. Shinkle, J., et al. “The Effectiveness of Stretching for Prevention and Treatment of Exercise-Related Injury: A Systematic Review of the Literature.” Journal of Sport Rehabilitation, 2017, vol. 26, no. 4, pp. 331-337.