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This has become an interesting discussion! What is the point of stretching? In the case of the ITB there are many functional and biomechanical considerations. If the ITB is tight, ITBS may develop due to friction between the ITB and lateral femoral epicondyle (or in some individuals a bursa overlying the epicondyle). Typically the ITB crosses the ITB a approx. 30 degrees of flexion. This injury frequently occurs in long distance runners because they often spend a significant time in this "impingement zone". Anyhow stretching is paramount in both prevention and treatment of ITBS. Particularly important is stretch immediately post-exercise, as the tissue fibres, both muscular and tendinous will be warm. At increased temperatures the elasticity/extensibility of collagen increases, facilitating greater ROM. Over time ROM can be augmented and maintained with a dilegent stretching protocol...ie three times a day, holding static stretch for at least 30 seconds. In addition, contract/ relax or PNF method of stretching can facilitate ROM. So muscular - tendinous lengthening - whatever - stretching so goooood! Scott _______________________________________________________________________________ Scott Vowles [log in to unmask] CPA-NSA Representative "Let not the destination overshadow the journey" _______________________________________________________________________________ %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%