The Importance Of Stretching

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - One of the most important things for athletes in their prime, for weekend warriors going to battle and the average person coming home from work, the importance of taking the time to stretch cannot be overstated.

If you think about it many people can go weeks and weeks without stretching at all. Stretching is almost like putting oil in your car. Stretching can help loosen you up and keep you from pulling muscles or going into muscle spasms. It doesn't take much time. If once or twice a day you took the time to stretch I guarantee you it would help prevent injuries that put you out of action.

But not just that -- stretching allows you to provide some relief for those aching muscles.

There is a simple stretch you can do at work. All you have to do is turn your head to one side and hold it and then back to the other side and hold it. It seems so simple but what it will do is allow you to take tension away from your neck. Something as simple as this can help prevent headaches that get worse as the day goes on.

Don't underestimate the importance of stretching.

Reported By Dr. Brian McDonough, KYW Newsradio Medical Editor