Stretching. Sometimes euphoric, sometimes a pesky tic doing more hard than good.
According to health.harvard.edu, stretching…
"...keeps the muscles flexible, strong, and healthy, and we need that flexibility to maintain a range of motion in the joints. Without it, the muscles shorten and become tight."
This of course does not take into account stretching due to a tic, the reason you probably found this article.
Is stretching a motor or vocal tic?
Is it a simple or complex tic?
This really depends on the person, as stretching can involve a large number of muscle groups.
A simple tic would be the stretching action specifically. It would become complex if this tic is carried out with another tic of a different nature, or goes beyond that of a simple stretching action.
Main article: The difference between simple and complex tics
What to look out for
Stretching always comes with a risk of injury.
StretchCoach states the following on the dangers of stretching:
Stretching, just like any other form of exercise, can be extremely dangerous and harmful if performed incorrectly or recklessly. But the same can be said for any type of exercise or fitness activity.
The immediate risk is pulling a muscle, and repetitive stretching in one area. Tics often focus on one specific area of the body for prolonged periods of time.
It would be advisable to see a specialist if this tic runs the risk of injury.
Is this caused by Tourette syndrome?
Tics that last more than a year, and consist of at least two motor tics and one vocal tic, could be Tourette syndrome.
A diagnosis has to come from a medical professional.
Main article: The difference between Tourette and other tic disorders
