American Stroke Foundation

This video provides 5 different exercises to help prevent and reduce tight and stiff muscles.

Spasticity is when you have stiff or tight muscles. To prevent this, stretching is important.

For today’s stretches, you should be seated in a sturdy chair, with non-slip shoes on, near a table and/or a wall. It would also be helpful to have a towel, band, or belt available.

Warm up includes some deep breathing, neck stretches, and shoulder rolls.

1. Hand stretch (3:50 – 6:15). Stretch out one hand at a time by placing it firmly on the table and then apply pressure to the top.
2. Shoulder stretch (6:15 – 8:15). Perform this shoulder stretch by placing your hand on a stable surface such as a wall or table and turning slightly in the opposite direction.
3. Arm raises (8:20 – 11:05). Using a towel, belt, or band extend arms straight and raise them up as far as you can while keeping them straight.
4. Hamstring stretch (11:10 – 12:50). Sitting at the edge of your chair, stretch out one leg at a time. Place the towel, belt, or band around the foot and lean slightly forward to get a good hamstring stretch.
5. Hip stretch (12:55 – 14:50). To stretch out your hips, cross your legs at the knees or the ankle and lean slightly forward.