The primary goal of stretching is to regain or improve range of motion and to improve tissue flexibility. The term directed refers to addressing a specific region of the body or group of muscles with a pattern of stretching used to address a specific limitation or abnormality. An evaluation is performed to help determine what the directed pattern of stretching should be. A effective directed stretching program improve restricted movement and promote favorable tissue adaptation and remodeling where it is required to improve function. A generalized non-specific approach to stretching large muscle groups might not resolve an underlying more localized problem involving smaller muscle groups.

The repair phase of healing is characterized by the formation of new tissue and connective tissue bonds. In the case of muscle, it involves muscle fiber repair and hypertrophy that increases the muscles efficiency for performing work. If there is persistent directed stretching, the tissue will heal and repair in a more organized manner resulting in better tissue flexibility. This can only be accomplished through timely intervention with a regular stretching program. This approach is critical during the early stage of inflammation and healing. Muscles that are not stretched will heal and structurally remodel, in a shortened and less flexible state. However, aggressive attempts to stretch the tissue may lead to additional mechanical trauma and promote formation of adhesion (scar) tissue.

Persistent and gentle tissue mobilization and movement prevents the formation of scar between dissimilar tissue planes. Any adhesions, which do form, are not allowed to become thick and incapable of breaking down and being reabsorbed. If thick insoluble adhesions form even the most appropriate stretching program may never reduce them. An effective stretching program cannot be a hit and miss approach; it must be targeted, consistent, gentle but progressive.

The first goal of a directed stretching program is not to induce further injury. Directed stretching should be guided by the presence of pain. In other words directed stretching should be limited by the onset of discomfort and/or pain to reduce the risk for further injury. This approach is sometimes referred to as working within the functional range of motion or the range of motion not associated with pain. A successful rehabilitative stretching approach should lead to an expanded functional range of motion as the tissue adapts and remodels to accommodate the gradual increased demand for greater range of motion.

Stretching exercises should not be used until they can be performed without severe stabbing or radiating pain.

Fast, jerky and bouncing type motions should be avoided during directed stretching. They may lead to a temporary reduction of discomfort but in the long run they are more likely to re-injure the area. A gentle controlled stretch produces the best results.