Tight joints, muscles and ligaments can lead to potential injury when you exercise or perform other athletic movements. Proper stretching helps to prevent injuries associated with tight muscles and joints; however, improper form while stretching may also lead to a sharp pain or injury.
Sprains and Strains
According to MayoClinic.com, sprains and strains are two common types of muscle injury that can be accompanied by sharp pain. When stretching, you are putting added stress on your muscles, joints, ligaments and tendons. A sprain is the stretching or tearing of ligaments, the thick, fibrous bands that connect bone to bone across a joint. A strain is the stretching or tearing of a muscle or tendon which connects muscles together. Sharp pains can result in either case, and can be accompanied by swelling or bruising.
Proper Form
Practicing safe stretching by focusing on using the proper form. First warm your muscles and ligaments up with light activity for five minutes before stretching. Stretching involves a gentle, constant pressure; bouncing or pulsing movements increase the risk of tearing or rupturing a ligament or tendon. Remember to breathe when stretching so that you do not get dizzy or develop a headache by holding your breath.
Considerations
If you feel a sharp pain while stretching, stop the stretch immediately and seek medical attention promptly, as this may be a sign of injury. Your doctor may require you to place ice on the injured muscle or joint to limit the amount of swelling. If possible, keep the injured limb or body part elevated above the height of your heart to further limit swelling.
Treatment
Depending on the severity of your strain or sprain, your may be required to keep your injured limb in a sling or wrapped while you are healing. In severe injury cases, you may need surgical intervention to re-attach a torn muscle or ligament.
