The Bottom Line: Static Stretching and Injuries: What Does the Research Say?

08/21/2017

Certified ergonomist Blake McGowan shares the results of several studies that found that static stretching conducted prior to physical activity does not reduce the incidence of overuse injuries in this month's issue.

References:

Herbert, R. D., and M. GABRIEL. (2002). Effects of stretching before and after exercising on muscle soreness and risk of injury: a systematic review. Br. Med. J. 325:468–470, 2002.

Hess JA, Hecker S. (2003). Stretching at work for injury prevention: issues, evidence, and recommendations. Appl Occup Environ Hyg. 2003 May;18(5):331-8. Review.

Knudson, D. V., P. Magnusson, and M. McHugh. (2000). Current issues in flexibility fitness. Pres. Council Phys. Fitness Sports 3:1–6, 2000.

McHugh MP, Cosgrave CH. (2010). To stretch or not to stretch: the role of stretching in injury prevention and performance. Scand J Med Sci Sports. 2010 Apr;20(2):169-81.

Thacker SB, Gilchrist J, Stroup DF, Kimsey CD Jr. (2004). The impact of stretching on sports injury risk: a systematic review of the literature. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2004 Mar;36(3):371-8.