5 Benefits of Stretching to Avoid Sports Injury

Athletes devote much time, energy, and focus into their performances.  They understand what it takes to rise to physical challenges every day.  As an orthopedic surgeon in Lake Mary, we at Florida Bone and Joint Specialists know the physical boundaries our athletes are pushed to both on and off the field.  Many athletes spend a good deal of their time stretching and tending to their muscles in order to prevent injury and ensure stellar athletic performance.  There are many benefits to stretching your muscles to avoid sports injury.  

Increases Flexibility

When you are constantly using your muscles in a repetitive manner, tension will increase.  This tension can lead to injury if not released.  Stretching can do just that.  By stretching, you can increase your range of motion and flexibility of joints and muscles, releasing the tension that could otherwise lead to harmful injuries.  Range of motion is important to successful athletic performances because it allows you to feel looser and easily, and safely, maneuver on the field.

Improves Athletic Performance

When you stretch, you are preparing your body for physical exertion.  Regular stretching prior to athletics can help to loosen up your muscles, increase range of motion, and increase blood flow to muscles, joints, and tendons that will need energized for your athletics.  Using proper stretching techniques before athletics is critical to improving your performance, because you don't want to engage in improper techniques or introduce new exercises that could actually hinder your overall athletic performance.  Be sure to consult a trainer or sports medicine physician to receive the right exercises for your sport.  

Helps Heal

Stretching after an intense athletic performance is also critical.  This helps to repair and rejuvenate your muscles and joints from the blast of physical exertion.  Relaxing and recuperating your muscles is critical in ensuring the longevity of your athletic career.  Stretching also works to decompress your back, while accelerating recovery of your muscles and joints.

Relieves Stress

When you are stretching, your body is delivering oxygen to those sore muscles or regions of the body your exercises are targeting.  Oxygenating your body gives you an overall relaxed feeling.  This helps to minimize stress and anxiety that can build up prior to an athletic performance, such as a big game or competition.  Stress can often tighten up your muscles, which can then lead to injury.  By engaging in regular stretching, you can minimize stress and avoid injuries.

Improves Posture and Balance

While stretching can improve your overall flexibility, it can also work to regain balance and adjust your posture.  When you stretch, your back will have to do work.  By stretching your back regularly, you will be able to increase blood flow and activity to loosen up those tightened muscles.  Over time, this will improve your balance and posture.

Our athletes are committed to their performance just as much as are committed to helping our patients reach their full potential and stay on top of their health.  If you are looking to improve your athletic performance and overall health, contact Florida Bone and Joint Specialists, a premiere orthopedic surgeon in Lake Mary, to request an appointment today.