Trying to decide between massage vs. stretch when it comes to working out muscle tension?
A chiropractor explains which is best, when.
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Muscle tension is a part of life.
But whats the best the best way to go about this?
How do you decide between a massage vs. stretch to address muscle aches?
The first thing you have to do is determine the source of your soreness, according to Dr. Klein.
chiropractor and founder ofBroadway Chiropractic &
Is it being because of a general tightness of your muscle or a specific knot or trigger point?
Because its two totally different things, he says.
While stretching is your best bet for tightness, a knot needs to be, well, kneaded.
You want your hips and shoulders to be level, he says.
Imbalances like this can put more pressure on some muscles than others, which can lead to tension.
Its Amazing How Its All Connected.
give a shot to lift one leg up toward the ceiling.
Stretching the hip and lower body muscles can help to restoremobility through that joint.
Similarly, not being able to fold forward and touch your toes can be a sign oftight hamstrings.
Youll know when youve found oneit will probably hurt.
To work it out yourself, hold pressure on a trigger point for 30 to 60 seconds.
Hes also a big fan of foam rollers for the same reason.
They can help with both stretching and trigger point release, he says.
The best of both worlds.
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