Stretching

The good doctor

I've just read a thread about back pain and noted Montydogs suggestion to stretch more, especially the hamstrings in order to reduce lower back pain.
With this in mind how much of a "knock on effect" can tight hamstrings have ? How far reaching can the consequences be.
A number of years ago I went to an excellent sports physio (after a few dud ones) to seek treatment for a knee issue. In a nutshell I was told to stretch a lot more than I was resulting in complete cure.
Now I have a few niggle I'd like to address and am curious about interaction between muscle groups.
On another topic is it possible to change ones forum name ??

Thanks

John

PhilAcp

Tight hamstrings can cause all sorts of problems. Apart from lower back pain, they can cause a whole suite of knee problems. Muscle imbalances (between weak hamstrings and strong quadracepts), increased friction over the bursae in the knee and increased likelihood of tendonitis are all possible. I've had pes anserine bursitis (which is painful) for exactly that reason. Always stretch and stretch responsibly - i.e. when the muscles are warm and don't overdo it. The hamstrings are quite easy to ignore and hard to stretch, but if you look on the internet, you'll find some stretches to suit.

I have had a lot of problems, which started with tight hamstrings and the knock-on effects have been pretty devastating. 2 years later and 1 operation, I am back on the road, but I what I wouldn't have done to have had some responsible advice about stretching before my injury.

www.brightonmitre.co.uk

woody-som

you might find this book usefull. http://www.amazon.co.uk/Full-Body-Flexi ... 843&sr=1-1

I recently bought a copy, and must say it covers every stretch you can do, for mobility and strength, has a section of stretches for cyclists. Easy to read, worth the money IMHO.

chris