Review of research findings on static stretching in healthy subjects

Stretching is an ancient method of treating soft tissue structures amongst the historical cultures. This method, in addition to other manual techniques such as, massage and manipulation has been taught in ancient medicine. Nowadays, a wide range of studies have been performed to reveal the effects of this manual method on different muscle groups in patients, as well as healthy athlete subjects. Different methods of stretching have also been introduced for applying on various tissues. One of these methods is static stretching, which has been considered by researchers during recent decades. It can be concluded from the previous studies that static stretching may result in long-term effects on mobility of joints and decreasing tissue resistance. It is also revealed that permanent effects of stretching on tissues require performing this method for about two months. This article aims at reviewing research- based findings related to static stretching in healthy subjects during last three decades. Providing the results of recent studies in a single complex may help therapists to make a decision easier for applying stretching on different muscle groups.