If you're a dog or cat owner, you've probably noticed how often your pet
likes to stretch.
But unlike our furry friends, we're not as likely to get up and stretch our bodies after
long bouts of inactivity, even though our bodies would like nothing more.
Over time, if stretching is not a part of our routine, our joints and muscles may
become stiffer, and even painful. The more inactive we are, the stiffer we get.
Collagen, a major component of connective tissue, can vary from person to person,
depending on their genetic make-up, and so flexibility can also vary a great deal.
Older people are not necessarily less flexible then young people. However, aging
can contribute to the lack of flexibility that being inactive causes. Poor posture and
stress can also cause muscles to tighten. People with illnesses that limit their activity,
especially chronic problems like arthritis and Parkinson’s, benefit from stretching as
an important way to prevent injury and help with pain.
Exercises such as Tai Chi can help with flexibility, balance, and strength.
(Return to Previous Page, "Moving Well")
likes to stretch.
But unlike our furry friends, we're not as likely to get up and stretch our bodies after
long bouts of inactivity, even though our bodies would like nothing more.
Over time, if stretching is not a part of our routine, our joints and muscles may
become stiffer, and even painful. The more inactive we are, the stiffer we get.
Collagen, a major component of connective tissue, can vary from person to person,
depending on their genetic make-up, and so flexibility can also vary a great deal.
Older people are not necessarily less flexible then young people. However, aging
can contribute to the lack of flexibility that being inactive causes. Poor posture and
stress can also cause muscles to tighten. People with illnesses that limit their activity,
especially chronic problems like arthritis and Parkinson’s, benefit from stretching as
an important way to prevent injury and help with pain.
Exercises such as Tai Chi can help with flexibility, balance, and strength.
(Return to Previous Page, "Moving Well")
from Living Older, Living Better! by Katrina Gwinn, MD
Stretch-for Healthy Joints and Muscles
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