Instituto Henriqueta Teixeira

Stretching and flexibility:
its importance in rehabilitation

Robert Lardner

Introduction
Stretching and the improvement of flexibility has been an important goal both in the recreational and therapeutic field in the belief that it is beneficial in promoting good physical and mental function (Travell & Simons 1994, Janda & Jull 1987, Janda 1988, Bunkan 1920). It is claimed that stretching can reduce injury risk, relax hypertonic muscles, lengthen shortened tissue (Markos 1979, Etnyre 1986) and help to improve faulty posture (Janda & Jull 1987, Wang 1999, Wright 2000). In spite of its constant use and clinically observable results, the research remains somewhat controversial in determining how effective stretching is, and indeed how stretching achieves its effects. Utilizing various movement philosophies, for example Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) (More 1979),
Feldenkrais (Ofir 1990), Pilates (Swaim 1993), and Tai Chi (Wolf 1997), can help to restore or improve flexibility, decrease pain and improve coordination, thereby improving overall function. The following article and ensuing articles by different authors will attempt to review and explain some basic facts,philosophies and observations regarding flexibility and how and why it is of such clinical importance.

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