Hello, this is Shoya from Lifeforce Chiropractic! This is Shoya from Life Force Chiropractic Staff!

Today we will discuss the relationship between stress and stiff shoulders!

Shoulder stiffness is one of the most common problems that many people suffer from on a daily basis. It is caused by stiffness in the muscles around the shoulders, especially due to desk work or prolonged smartphone use. Stretching has gained attention as a way to relieve this shoulder stiffness. Proper stretching not only prevents and improves shoulder stiffness, but also contributes to daily comfort and performance.

First, the main cause of stiff shoulders is that the muscles around the shoulders and shoulder blades are placed under tension for extended periods of time. In today's lifestyle, operating a computer or smartphone results in a constant stooped posture, leaving the muscles contracted. When this condition is prolonged, blood flow is blocked, waste products accumulate, and muscles become rigid, causing pain and discomfort.

Stretching is a very effective way to relieve this muscle stiffness. Stretching stretches the muscles and promotes blood flow, which facilitates the elimination of waste products and the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the muscles. This reduces muscle tension and increases flexibility. Stretching also has a relaxation effect and can be expected to reduce mental stress. Since stress can contribute to stiff shoulders, mental and physical relaxation can also help relieve stiff shoulders.

Specifically, the key to effective stretching for stiff shoulders is to move with the shoulder blades in mind. For example, movements such as rotating the shoulders widely and pulling and spreading the shoulder blades together are very effective in relaxing the muscles around the shoulders. Also important are stretches that open the chest. In a stooped posture, the chest muscles contract, which puts strain on the shoulders and neck.

Furthermore, stretching not only has an immediate effect, but is also effective in preventing stiff shoulders when done on an ongoing basis. By incorporating frequent stretching into your daily routine, you can keep your muscles soft and less likely to develop stiff shoulders. In particular, incorporating light stretching between desk work sessions can help prevent muscle stiffness that can cause stiff shoulders.

However, when stretching, it is important not to overstretch the muscles. Stretching to the point of pain can be counterproductive and put strain on the muscles and joints. It is important to relax while taking slow, deep breaths and valuing the sensation of comfortable muscle stretching.

In addition to stretching, moderate exercise and improved posture can also help to fundamentally eliminate stiff shoulders. Strengthening muscles through strength training and creating a body that can maintain correct posture will help to reduce the incidence of stiff shoulders.

In general, stretching is a very effective tool in improving and preventing shoulder stiffness. By keeping the muscles around the shoulders flexible and improving blood flow, it can reduce the discomfort of stiff shoulders and make daily life more comfortable. (Information: Hot Pepper Beauty Mahoro Pelvic Seitai-in)