Improving Flexibility – How Your Physio Can Help

Flexibility is important for general wellbeing and physical ability, as it can help to reduce your risk of injury, improve performance and help you feel more relaxed and comfortable day to day. Many people complain about their muscles and joints feeling ‘stiff’, and in some cases this can limit their range of motion. There are numerous ways of improving flexibility, and it is always best to seek an expert opinion before embarking on an exercise program which may or may not work for you. Here’s how your physiotherapist may be able to help. 

The Benefits of Flexibility 

Flexibility is important for people of all ages and abilities, as it enables muscles and joints to achieve the full range of motion. This makes it easier to perform daily tasks and physical activities, without experiencing discomfort. Having good flexibility will also improve your overall health.  

Being flexible helps to: 

• Reduce the risk of Injury
• Reduce the incidence of muscle/joint pain
• Improve posture
• Improve balance
• Improve physical performance
• Promote a positive mindset

Factors which Affect Flexibility 

It’s well understood that younger people are typically more flexible than older people, and this is due to a natural decline in muscle mass and the joint movement becoming stiffer with age. Many older people also lead sedentary lifestyles with infrequent stretching which further contributes to inflexibility.   

Genetic is another important factor which can determine flexibility, as each individual has unique bone structure and differently developed tendons and muscles. This explains why some people appear to be more flexible than others, even if they are of a similar age and lead a similar lifestyle to you.  

Movement plays a crucial role in maintaining flexibility. Daily stretches and participating in light physical activities such as yoga and Pilates can help to improve flexibility. These activities are particularly beneficial for those who work sedentary office jobs with a higher risk of experiencing postural issues and inflexibility.  

How Your Physio Can Help Improve Flexibility 

There’s no ‘one size fits all’ approach when it comes to stretching and exercise routines. Whilst there are plenty of online programmes and fitness experts claiming to offer great benefits, it’s important to understand your own capabilities and the effects these exercises may have on your body. This is where working in close collaboration with your physiotherapist can be beneficial, as they will prepare a tailored program aimed suited to your needs.  

Some physio approved exercises which may increase muscle extensibility and overall flexibility include: 

• Pre-workout dynamic stretching – it is best practice to do some dynamic stretching prior to commencing your workout. This includes things such as jumping jacks, leg swings and push-ups. Doing so will help to warm up the muscles and reduce stiffness.  
• Post workout/Cool down static stretching – muscles may tighten during your workout, and static stretching can help to loosen them up. Your physio may show you how to do a ‘Standing Triceps Stretch’ or ‘Swan Stretch’ which are both very effective cool down exercises.  
• Neural Flossing Techniques – by focussing on neural mobility, improvements can be made in the way your muscles work together. You will also notice an improvement in their ability to tolerate heavier strain.  

Take the First Step Towards Improving Flexibility – Call Orthosports Physio Today 

Orthosports Physiotherapy work closely with athletes and sportspeople to deliver tailored solutions aimed at enhancing performance and mobility. If you’ve been experiencing pain and stiffness and found yourself struggling to improve your flexibility, we invite you to schedule an appointment today by calling 9744 2201.