Stretch Weakness

Just about all athletes, and most active people are encouraged to stretch as part of their fitness and training routines.  Stretching and flexibility is great, but sometimes can be overdone, and in some cases, should be avoided!!  Did you read that correctly?  Yes!  A condition called "stretch weakness" can develop in muscles, tendons and ligaments.  Just look at a stretched out rubber band: it no longer does the job it was intended for, even if it is not broken or torn.  The same can occur with the tissues in your body noted above.  When a muscle, tendon, or ligament is over-stretched, it loses strength; thus, it's performance deteriorates.  I see many people in my practice who have muscles or tendons that are so over-stretched, that they develop weakness, as well as pain, such as the pain of tendinitis.  If not thoroughly evaluated, these people are often told to stretch the problem area!! This only makes matters worse.  Testing for stretch weakness should be done by a physical therapist who is familiar with this condition.   Many well-intentioned health professionals, including some physical therapists could inadvertently tell a person to stretch more when it's the last thing they need.  I know that In my early days as a PT, I likely did the same thing in some cases, without even knowing it.  If you're having problems with a muscle, tendon, or ligament, have it looked at by someone who won't simply tell you to rest, take ant-inflammatories, and stretch!  You may need all three, but make sure.