Tegenoverstrekking

Tegenoverstrekking is a Dutch term used in medical and fitness contexts to describe overstretching of a tissue beyond its normal physiological length. The concept can refer to muscles, tendons, ligaments, or joint capsules, and it is most commonly discussed in sports, rehabilitation, and manual therapy settings.

Causes of tegen overstrekking include aggressive or rapid stretching, ballistic or forced movements, fatigue, insufficient warm-up, and poor technique. Activities that involve large or extreme ranges of motion, such as gymnastics or ballet, carry a higher risk, especially when stretches are performed beyond a tissue’s tolerance or without proper supervision.

Symptoms typically include pain or soreness at or beyond the end of the normal range of motion, tenderness, swelling, and sometimes weakness or instability of the affected joint. More severe overstretching can cause micro-tears in muscle or ligament tissue and may irritate nearby nerves.

Prevention focuses on gradual progression of stretch intensity, adequate warm-up, avoiding bouncing or forcing a stretch to the point of pain, and using proper technique. People with joint hypermobility or a history of injuries should seek guidance from a clinician or trained professional before undertaking advanced flexibility work.

Management usually begins with rest, ice, compression, and elevation in the acute phase, followed by a structured rehabilitation program to restore range of motion and strengthen surrounding tissues. In persistent or severe cases, medical evaluation and imaging may be warranted, and in rare instances surgical intervention could be considered.