Relieve Tension and Stiffness With Stretching
Let go of stress and relax your back and hips with these five simples stretches.
The power of stretching is real.
By Bryan D. Vargo
Reviewed by Doreen Stiskal, PhD, Chair of the Department of Physical Therapy, Seton Hall University
Cat and Camel Stretch
CAUTION: If your hips have limited range of motion, do only steps A and B.
Photo credit: Kaylinn Gilstrap
Hamstring Stretch
Single Knee to Chest Stretch
CAUTION: If arthritis affects your knees, check with your physical
therapist before trying
Lumbar Rotation Stretch
A) Lie on back with knees bent, feet flat on mat, arms extended to sides. B) Raise knees toward chest and keeping knees bent and together, slowly lower them to the right, keeping shoulders on the mat, until you feel a stretch in lower back and obliques. C) Hold for 10 to 30 seconds, then repeat to other side.
Piriformis Stretch
A) Lie on back with knees bent, feet flat on mat. B) Cross left foot over right leg, resting left ankle on right knee. Keeping pelvis flat, gently press left knee with left hand until you feel a stretch. C) Hold for 10 to 30 seconds, then repeat with other leg.
Lunge Stretch
Lat Side Stretch
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