An Evidence-Based Guide from a Paediatric Physio

As parents in active communities like Busselton and Bunbury, we often wonder if we're doing enough to support our children's physical health, especially when it comes to activities like sports. You might hear about stretching as a way to improve performance and prevent injury, but what does the evidence actually say? Understanding the science can help you make informed decisions for your child.

Below, our team breaks down the research on how stretching works for different people, including children with specific developmental needs.

Annie Chappell, PhD | July, 2025

How Stretching Improves Range of Motion

Stretching has been established as an effective way to increase joint range of motion in people with normal flexibility. Athletes often use stretching to improve their range of motion. Static stretching reduces overall stiffness when performed at moderate (to discomfort) or high intensity (to pain). Repeated stretching over 3-6 weeks reduces sensitivity, so you can tolerate a stronger stretch and therefore get a better range of motion. Improvements in range are probably due to reduced stiffness of the muscle fibres, rather than a change in the tendon, which has a much higher collagen content and is less flexible than the muscle belly. Studies recommend stretching for at least 2 minutes, at least 3 days per week, for at least 2 weeks.

Stretching for Children with Spastic Cerebral Palsy

Children with spastic cerebral palsy have different muscle architecture from typically developing children. Generally, in spastic muscles, the muscle belly is shorter and the tendon is longer, which is one of the reasons the muscle is weaker. Static and dynamic stretching are generally not effective for increasing joint range of motion or muscle function. However, regular stretching is effective in preventing contractures, which is important for maintaining gross motor skills.

Stretching for People with Existing Contractures

In people with contractures, or muscle shortening, a stretching program may improve joint range by 1-2 degrees, which is not a lot. This is true of people both with and without neurological conditions. This research has been conducted largely in adults, so there is more work to be done to understand if this is also true in children. This means that for people with muscle shortening, it is best to combine stretching with other treatments, such as Botulinum Toxin injection (Botox) or functional electrical stimulation.

Your Expert Guide for Your Child's Needs

As the research shows, stretching is not a one-size-fits-all solution. The right approach depends entirely on your child's unique body and their specific goals. For further information and a plan tailored specifically for your child, it is always best to speak to your paediatric physiotherapist.

Our team at Brave Bodies provides expert, family-centred care across the South West, including Busselton, Bunbury, Dunsborough, and Margaret River. We are here to help you navigate your child's developmental journey with confidence.

Contact us to learn more or to book an appointment.

Sources:

Ingram, L.A., Tomkinson, G.R., d’Unienville, N.M.A. et al. Mechanisms Underlying Range of Motion Improvements Following Acute and Chronic Static Stretching: A Systematic Review, Meta-analysis and Multivariate Meta-regression. Sports Med 55, 1449–1466 (2025).https://doi.org/10.1007/s40279-025-02204-7

Kruse, Annika, et al. "Eight weeks of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation stretching and static stretching do not affect muscle-tendon properties, muscle strength, and joint function in children with spastic cerebral palsy." Clinical Biomechanics 107 (2023): 106011.

Kalkman, Barbara M., et al. "Stretching interventions in children with cerebral palsy: why are they ineffective in improving muscle function and how can we better their outcome?." Frontiers in physiology 11 (2020): 131.

Harvey, Lisa A., et al. "Stretch for the treatment and prevention of contracture: an abridged republication of a Cochrane Systematic Review." Journal of physiotherapy 63.2 (2017): 67-75.

FAQs – Stretching and Your Child’s Physical Health

1. Does stretching help all children improve their flexibility?
Not always. Stretching can increase joint range of motion in children with typical muscle structure, but it doesn’t work the same way for every child. For example, children with spastic cerebral palsy may not see the same gains in flexibility or function from stretching alone.

2. How long and how often should my child stretch for best results?
For kids with normal flexibility, research recommends stretching for at least 2 minutes, three times per week, over at least two weeks to see improvements in range of motion. The stretch should be held to a point of discomfort but not pain.

3. Can stretching help prevent injuries in sport?
Yes, stretching can help reduce muscle stiffness and improve range of motion, which may help prevent injuries in active kids. However, it’s just one part of a broader warm-up and conditioning routine.

4. Is stretching useful for children with spastic cerebral palsy?
Regular stretching can help prevent contractures (permanent muscle shortening), which is important for preserving mobility. However, it doesn’t significantly improve joint range or strength in spastic muscles on its own.

5. My child already has a contracture, will stretching fix it?
Stretching alone may only improve joint range by 1–2 degrees, which isn’t a big change. It’s best to combine stretching with other treatments, under the guidance of a health professional.

6. Should I speak to a physiotherapist before starting a stretching routine?
Absolutely. Every child’s body and goals are different. A paediatric physio can assess your child’s needs and help build a plan that supports their health, movement, and overall development.