Clues for the mechanical signals needed for tissue elongation can be derived from the viscoelastic properties of the musculoskeletal tissues. For effective stretching the manual therapy techniques should contain the following elements of adequate tensional forces, adequate duration and repetition.
Tensional forces should be within the late elastic region to early plastic region of tissues.
Duration should be performed slowly and maintained to allow for viscoelastic changes to take place.
Repetitive stretching is more likely to activate the long-term adaptive elongation process.
It is important to note that in many cases even when individuals stretch for a few weeks once they stop the muscle returns to its original functional length within two to three weeks.
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Central London Osteopathy and Sports Injury Clinics
325-327 Old Street
Hoxton
London
EC1V 9LE
0207 739 5666
Central London Osteopathy and Sports Injury Clinics
245 Pentonville road
King's Cross
London
N1 9NG
0207 833 5530