Flexibility
Flexibility
When Not to Stretch (Precautions)
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Sources and review status
Review pending — this text hasn’t been signed off by a reviewer yet.
Historical reference: its only source is the original reference manual, and some of it may be out of date. Not used for AI answers until re-sourced.
See this lesson’s sourcesstretchingprecautionscontraindicationsfractureosteoporosissafety
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DefinitionA short reference note, not a full lesson.
Definition
Do not stretch if a bone blocks motion, after a recent fracture, with suspected joint infection/inflammation, with osteoporosis, with sharp acute pain on movement, or with certain vascular/skin diseases.
Detail
The most commonly cited precautions (Alter, 1996). Do not stretch if:
- a. a bone blocks motion
- b. you have had a recent fracture of a bone
- c. an acute inflammatory or infectious process in or around a joint is suspected or known
- d. osteoporosis is suspected or known
- e. there is a sharp, acute pain with joint movement or muscle elongation
- f. you suffer from certain vascular or skin disease
Key facts
- Don't stretch if a bone blocks the motion.
- Don't stretch after a recent bone fracture.
- Don't stretch with suspected/known acute inflammation or infection in/around a joint.
- Don't stretch with suspected/known osteoporosis.
- Don't stretch when there is sharp, acute pain on joint movement or muscle elongation.
- Don't stretch with certain vascular or skin diseases.
Connections
- Stretching Controversy — the discussion these precautions follow.
- Stretching Guidelines (Alter) — the positive how-to rules.
- "X-Rated" Exercises (Contraindicated Stretches) — Overview — detailed danger analysis of specific stretches lives in the safety domain.
Sources
Historical reference · reference manual (page cited)
p.204
Cited authority in source: Alter (1996), Science of Stretching.
Topics like this depend on your health and history. A qualified coach or clinician can apply it to you safely.
Educational content only — not medical advice. Always consult a qualified professional for individualized guidance, especially around injury, pregnancy, or medical conditions.
Explore related topics
Atlas Connections
Stretching ControversyClosely related
Stretching is not a panacea — for some athletes it may increase the risk of ligament injury and joint separation/dislocation, and excessively loose joints may lead to premature osteoarthritis.Stretching Guidelines (Alter)
Eight how-to rules for safe stretching from Alter (1996): warm up first, isolate the muscle, move in slowly, align properly, breathe out into the stretch, hold ~10 seconds, concentrate, and come out carefully."X-Rated" Exercises (Contraindicated Stretches) — Overview
A set of stretches rated "X" because they are too advanced or dangerous for the average fitness participant — and sometimes even for advanced athletes.