208: Is Active Stretching the Key to Fixing Your Pain & Injury? Ft Dr. Grayson Wickham

In this podcast episode, Dr. Grayson Wickham, a mobility expert, shares invaluable insights on how we can proactively maintain our joints, prevent injuries, and improve our overall physical performance. He begins by highlighting the importance of foot mobility and shares his experience with minimalist shoes. Dr. Wickham warns against diving headfirst into minimal shoes, emphasizing the need to build foot resilience gradually. He delves into the concept of active stretching, explaining why static stretching can increase the risk of injury and decrease performance. Active stretching involves stretching a muscle or joint and then actively contracting those muscles while maximally stretched. This approach not only enhances flexibility but also improves joint stability, body awareness, and proprioception. Dr. Wickham demonstrates an active stretch for the hamstring, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a slight knee bend. The conversation shifts to the Movement Vault app, an invaluable resource Dr. Wickham has developed. The app offers daily stretching routines, focusing on different body areas, and includes muscle activation exercises and muscle and fascia release techniques. Dr. Wickham introduces structured programs for specific pain and injuries, such as low back pain and plantar fasciitis, taking users through a 16-week progressive journey to address both symptoms and root causes. Dr. Wickham's key ideas revolve around the significance of proactive joint maintenance and the effectiveness of active stretching. He emphasizes that static stretching, a common practice, can increase injury risk and decrease performance, whereas active stretching simultaneously improves flexibility, joint stability, balance, body awareness, and proprioception. The episode's primary lesson is that joint pain and injuries are preventable, and enhancing joint mobility and stability should be a priority. Proactive maintenance can lead to better physical performance and long-term joint health. Key Takeaways: Active stretching is more effective than static stretching for improving joint health and mobility. Joint pain and injuries can be prevented through proactive maintenance. The Movement Vault app offers structured programs and daily routines to enhance joint health and overall physical performance. Resources: Movement Vault app (https://movementvault.com)   (00:36:52 - 00:38:03) Active stretching is more effective than static stretching. Static stretching doesn't improve joint stability or mobility. Being too flexible can be a negative, especially for hypermobile individuals.  (00:38:03 - 00:38:28) Movement requires muscle activation and joint stability. Static stretching doesn't contribute to better active movement.  (00:38:28 - 00:39:45) Movement requires muscle activation. Static stretching does not mimic active movement effectively.  (00:39:45 - 00:40:52) Perform a static stretch to find end range. Create a contraction in the stretched muscle for 10-20 seconds. Then, contract the opposing muscle for 10-20 seconds.  (00:42:09 - 00:43:53) The Movement Vault app offers daily stretching classes (10-20 minutes). Focus on different body areas each day. Features pre-workout routines, recovery classes, desk routines, and specific programs for pain and injuries.  (00:45:23 - 00:45:58) Consistent active stretching improves mobility and joint health. It's a proactive way to prevent pain, injuries, and joint replacements. Mobility work can lead to better performance in various activities.  (00:47:06 - 00:49:36) Joint replacements are often preventable with proactive mobility work. Encouragement to start stretching early for long-term health. Mention of the Movement Vault website and promo code for a discount. Reference to the book "Million-Dollar Body Method" and its health recommendations.