04/18/2025
The Power of Prone Stretching for Seniors: Why It Matters More Than You Think
As we age, staying flexible and mobile becomes essential—not just for comfort, but for safety and independence. One simple but often overlooked position? Prone stretching—lying on your stomach to stretch the front of the body.
Why is prone stretching important for seniors?
• It helps maintain spinal alignment and prevents forward posture or “hunching.”
• It stretches tight hip flexors and chest muscles, improving balance and mobility.
• It supports lung expansion and breathing, especially for those who sit or recline often.
• It can help reduce pain and stiffness in the back, shoulders, and hips.
But here’s the challenge: Many seniors have difficulty getting into or out of a prone position due to pain, weakness, or fear of falling. That’s where mobile physical and occupational therapy can make all the difference.
With in-home therapy, we can help by:
• Building strength and flexibility safely and gradually
• Teaching proper techniques to get into and out of positions with confidence
• Addressing barriers like arthritis, joint pain, or reduced mobility
• Creating a personalized plan that meets each individual where they are
Avoiding prone positioning over time can lead to:
• Increased fall risk
• Reduced lung capacity
• Greater postural deformities
• Loss of functional independence
The good news? It’s never too late to work on mobility, strength, and safe stretching.
If you or a loved one is struggling with stiffness, posture, or flexibility—mobile PT/OT can help, right at home. One step at a time, we can help restore movement, reduce risk, and improve quality of life.