The hamstrings are the muscles on the back of your thighs. They function to bend the knee and move your thigh behind you. Feeling tight in the hamstrings is a very common complaint in populations of all activity levels. Many people try to stretch their hamstrings diligently, but to no avail. There are a couple of reasons for this. First, most people stretch their low backs as much, if not more than their hamstrings during these stretches by over flexing the back. Second, most people who feel tightness in their hamstrings during activity actually have over stretched hamstrings, but have shortened hip flexors. Thus, many people actually need to stretch their hip flexors more than their hamstrings. See our archived hip flexor and quad stretches for more info.
Note, be sure to keep the back arched by sticking your butt out as you lean forward. Try stretching once how you'd usually do it, then try this tip. You'll really feel the difference.
As always, if you or someone you know could benefit from our services, new patients who mention the website or blog qualify for our referral credit of $50 towards the initial exam.
Enjoy and until next time, stay active!
Kirk Iodice, DC, ART
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