In addition to chiropractic care and other physiotherapies available at Chiropractic Restorations, stretch therapy is also available and utilized regularly. Your practitioner will determine the best method needed for maximum effectiveness.
To facilitate the preservation, enhancement, or restoration of movement and physical function, we utilize therapeutic stretching. Some techniques utilized are the following:
Post Isometric Relaxation (PIR)
This stretching technique begins by placing the muscle in a stretched position. Then an isometric contraction is exerted against minimal resistance. Relaxation and then gentle stretch follow as the muscle releases. This technique is applied to tight, tender muscles that are commonly associated with musculoskeletal pain.
Passive stretching
This technique takes advantage of the fully relaxed (passive) muscle. The patient is instructed to fully relax the area while the practitioner takes the area being treated to a full range of motion to the patient’s tolerance and specific limitations and held for the appropriate amount of time.
Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF)
There are several different types of PNF stretching including “contract-relax”, “hold relax”, and “contract-relax agonist contract”; these are generally performed by having the patient contract the muscle being used during the technique at 75 to 100% of maximal contraction, holding for 10 seconds, and then relaxing. Resistance can be provided by a partner or with an elastic band or strap.