Home Stretching Guide - Trap Tox Edition
Here are some stretches to incorporate following trap tox to increase mobility, improve posture, and get the most out of your trap tox treatment. Begin these 2-3 weeks after treatment.
🧊 1. Foam Roller Snow Angels (Thoracic Mobility)
Purpose: Opens up the chest and improves upper back mobility.
Instructions:
- Lie on your back with a foam roller placed along your spine, supporting your head, upper back, and hips.
- Extend your arms overhead with palms facing down.
- Slowly move your arms in a snow angel motion, sliding them up and down while keeping your lower back pressed into the floor.
- Focus on squeezing your shoulder blades together as you move your arms.
- Perform 10–12 repetitions.
Tip: Engage your core to maintain spinal alignment.
🏐 2. Pectoralis Release with Lacrosse Ball
Purpose: Releases tight chest muscles that can contribute to upper back tension.
Instructions:
- Stand facing a wall or doorway.
- Place a lacrosse ball between your chest and the wall at the level of your collarbone.
- Lean into the ball, allowing it to press into the pectoral muscle.
- Slowly move your arm overhead and back down, rolling the ball along the chest muscle.
- Hold any tender spots for 20–30 seconds.
- Repeat on the other side.
Tip: Maintain a steady, deep breathing pattern throughout the exercise.
🧘 3. Lateral Flexion Neck Stretch
Purpose: Relieves neck stiffness and improves lateral neck mobility.
Instructions:
- Sit or stand with your back straight and shoulders relaxed.
- Gently tilt your head toward your right shoulder, bringing your ear closer to the shoulder.
- Use your right hand to apply gentle pressure to the left side of your head, deepening the stretch.
- Hold for 20–30 seconds, then slowly return to the starting position.
- Repeat on the left side.
Tip: Avoid shrugging your shoulders during the stretch.
Incorporating these stretches into your routine can help alleviate tension in the mid-back and neck, promoting better posture and reducing discomfort. These can be started 2-3 weeks following trap tox. Please reach out to us if you have any questions!