Flexibility

For effective stretching, it is necessary to use the appropriate amount of stretching and prolonged stretching. The amount of stretching can be divided by the resistances to stretching: the horizontal region, the transitional region, and the vertical region. In the transitional region, resistance is increased gradually with further stretching. Stretching in the middle of the transitional region may be the optimal region of stretching. To perform sustained stretching, many methods are utilized, such as orthoses, serial casting, a tilt table, or a sliding tilt table. Stretching with a sliding tilt table may be more comfortable for people than stretching with a tilt table because the smaller inclination angle can be used to stretch due to the reduced friction caused in the downward movement. In addition, it can minimize discomfort, facilitate muscle relaxation, and may even maximize the effectiveness of the stretching.