This Physical Therapy Stretching Strap Can Relieve Pain

Podiatrists previously put us on to a clever and affordable foot stretching tool that effectively reduces pain associated with conditions like plantar fasciitis and tendinitis. Since then, this device has been well-received by HuffPost readers, which prompted our discovery of another $30 device by the same brand, except this one can be used to stretch and address pain in the entire body.

The StretchRite stretching strap is a truly versatile, all-in-one band made by ProStretch, a brand offering at-home recovery tools that may allow users to replicate exercises they might perform at a physical therapist’s office.

In former discussions with experts like Patrick Maloney, lead athletic trainer at Tulane Institute of Sports Medicine in New Orleans, stretching is key to maintaining a normal range of motion that supports our daily activities, reduces pain, and, according to the Mayo Clinic, prevents injury.

“In the sports medicine world, we talk about the ‘kinetic chain,’ and every joint kind of has a relation to the other,” Maloney said. For example, the tightness you experience in your hip flexors might actually be causing you lower back pain or another kind of musculoskeletal soreness.”

Made from a non-elastic material, this patented strap features six ergonomically shaped handgrips that make it easy to stretch effectively and correctly, while also making it easier to control the tension or intensity of the stretch. These individualized handles also serve as visual cues so you can monitor your flexibility progress and feel more encouraged to continue a regular stretching routine. The more handles you’ve passed over time, the more flexible you’ve gotten!

The loop handles on either side of the strap allow for a near-endless array of stretches that allow users to target virtually every muscle group from the shins to sore backs to tennis elbows and tight hamstrings. And if you’re unsure what position to get into to perform your desired stretch, don’t worry, the StretchRite comes with an easy-to-follow guide and other resources to curate an effective stretch routine.

Reviewers insist that this is the only gizmo that makes it possible to stretch, especially for individuals who may have reduced hand strength or are worried about stretching safely.

“I use the StretchRite to stretch my hamstrings after running. I like how the strap does not slip off my foot, whether I’m wearing shoes, socks or am stretching barefoot, which is a problem I have with rubber tension bands. I also appreciate the multiple handgrips because some days I’m tighter than others. The also allow me to deepen my stretch on later repetitions in a set. Plus, they’re a lot easier to hold onto than gripping and pulling with a towel.” — Chris G.

“I have suffered from lower-back pain for years, which has made it difficult for me to stretch my hamstrings. This product makes it easier and much less painful on my back to stretch.” — GravyBaby

“I was looking for help with my plantar fasciitis and this is perfect. It beats using a towel or belt when trying to stretch your foot or calf muscles. I highly recommend this product for stretching. It is well made and sturdy.” — D. Diaz

“I had a painful plantar fasciitis & this really helped in keeping the foot & calf muscle stretched so it healed faster.” — Ro

“This exercise strap gives great control as to how much you want and can stretch. I would highly recommend it to anyone whose legs or thighs are tight.” —Ester F.

“My old one was stolen. I’m so thrilled to have another one. My hands lost their strength in bad injuries and the hand grips on this are the only they can hold onto a position while I stretch, and I can gradually increase the stretch by moving from one notch grip to the next one. Thanks immensely for this. I tried other methods and gizmos and none of them worked. This is FABULOUS!” — Barbara L.

“The StretchRite is a much better version of trying to stretch with a towel or elastic band. The patented StretchRite gives you a safer, more effective way to improve flexibility and get total body relief for sore, tight muscles. This has been a lifesaver for my lower back and legs – stretching helps remove tightness and I recover faster after each workout. The StretchRite is customizable so you can increase/decrease tension based on handgrip and position; a nice benefit since I’m more flexible in some parts of my body versus others.” — Melody J.