Do you have trouble getting started in the morning? An experienced orthopedist with the team of IMUA Orthopedics, Sports & Health in Honolulu, HI, offers these stretches to help you move more easily through the day. Combined with a breakfast full of good nutrition, these exercises will make your mornings productive and fun.

Top 3 Morning Stretches From an Orthopedist

1. Shoulder Stretch

As one of the body’s most delicate joints, the shoulder responds to this gentle stretch with more flexibility and mobility. Raise your left arm to shoulder height and cross it in front of your body. Take your right arm and pull the left one as close to your chest as you can. Hold the position for 30 seconds, resume your starting position, and repeat the exercise with your right arm. Try completing three to five sets.

2. Calf Stretching

Stretching your calf muscles helps relieve hip, knee, shin, and foot pain, and it can protect your Achilles tendon from injury during work or play. Place your hands on a chair or wall and stand with your feet shoulder-length apart. Lean into the chair or wall, keeping your knees straight and your heels on the floor. Hold the position for 30 seconds, and perform three to five sets.

3. Quadriceps Stretching

Orthopedists will tell you that stretching your quads can reduce back and knee pain, improve blood circulation, and lower stress levels. Place your feet together with the hips straight. Keeping your knees even, bend your left knee back and grasp the front of your left foot in your left hand. Hold the stretch for 30 seconds while keeping your body straight. You should feel the stretch on the top of the quadriceps. Repeat the motion on your right side, and do three to five stretches on each side.    

In Honolulu, HI, the dedicated orthopedists and staff of IMUA Orthopedics, Sports & Health want you to be healthy and well-informed about exercise and nutrition. For answers to your questions or to make an appointment with one of their orthopedic doctors, contact them online or call (808) 521-8170.