Stretching/Flexibility Issues (do you have this as well?)

[Neema Fotoohi]

 I notice after doing a specific stretch for an extended period of time (ie. middle splits, butterfly stretch), when I relax the muscles I stretched feel as though they get a bit tight after I've stretched them (almost like a rebound effect), and sometimes I'll feel the stretch in another area that I'm not even stretching (ie middle of my back when doing butterfly stretches). Has anyone experienced this "rebound" effect? If I want to see a professional about this, who do I go to (ie orthopedist, acupuncturist, physical therapist)?

[Alessandro Mainente]

Hi Neema, from a neural point of view it is completely normal that when a structure it is stretched for the tendency of the brain it is to protect from over range work and the muscles tend to return in the normal position. also some stretched naturally affects muscles which stabilize the pelvic/hip, those muscles actively work during all the stretch pose.

[Neema Fotoohi]

From a neurological standpoint, that makes sense. I think it's the Golgi membrane that is responsible for this.

Thing is I notice when I do middle splits that I feel tightness in my lower back, the left hip maybe feels slightly out of alignment and my left inner hamstring is very tight. I wonder who I should see about this to find out what's causing the tightness?

[Everett Carroll]

Hey Neema,

Personally I would go see a Chiropractor and hope they would at least be able to refer out if a specialist's opinion was necessary. 

[Neema Fotoohi]

I was thinking chiropractor. I'm curious to get your input, why a chiro as opposed to another specialist? When choosing a chiro, what are some qualifications/questions I should ask the chiro to know I'm going to the right one?

[Alessandro Mainente]

One point which must be considered it is that weak muscles tend to reduce faster the flexibility gain. if you haven't already considered this point, you must include an appropriate resistance work for your body.

[Everett Carroll]

I suggested a Chiro simply because I have shadowed some in the past and seen them help with similar issues. If what they do works then stick with them. Look for results.