Wheelchair Stretching: Combined Stretch

This video demonstrates positioning the wheelchair into a resting position. This position has many benefits including helping to relieve pressure, relaxes the back, stretches the hamstrings, stretches the heel cords if feet are positioned flat on the footrest, can take some pressure off of the diaphragm, and helps to open up the chest to improve respiration.

Disclaimer: This is a video of stretching exercises for mobility in someone with Duchenne. Stretching should not be painful. DO NOT continue to do the stretch if it causes pain, you notice difficulty breathing, or discomfort. Each stretch/position should be held for 30 seconds and can be repeated up to 3 times.

Benefits of these exercises vary: they may help to keep the joint mobile within its available range, may increase your tolerance to stretch, may improve circulation to the muscle, may decrease discomfort, and may give a feeling of well-being.

Consult your Physical Therapist to ask if these are appropriate for you.