When you stretch, you take your muscle to the point where you can feel a slight pull and hold this position for a few seconds without pain or discomfort. However, if you stretch your muscles beyond their normal range of motion, you may experience a pulled muscle -- or muscle strain.

The gluteus medius is an important muscle located in the buttocks that plays a crucial role in the stability as well as leveling of the hips. As a stabilizing muscle, the gluteus medius helps an individual maintain balance during hip abduction as well as internal and external rotation of the hip.

The design of an inversion table lets you invert from a standing position to different degrees of inversion. The table supports your body and lets you move from one position to another without the help of a partner. Unfortunately, inversion tables are expensive, but alternatives exist.

A spinal fusion permanently connects two or more bones in your spine. Although no foods specifically stimulate bone fusion, some types of food may help to stimulate healing and promote bone growth. Consult your physician for specific postoperative care.

A sternal fracture is a cracked or broken sternum often caused by trauma -- commonly seen in vehicle accidents when the steering wheel hits the driver’s chest. The sternum, or breast bone, is the long vertical bone in the center of the chest.

A bulging disk refers to a protrusion in the soft pad that separates the vertebrae in your spine. The term is often used interchangeably with other disk problems, such as a slipped or ruptured disk, though the conditions aren’t the same.

Bulging discs, also known as herniated discs, can result in lower back pain and radiating pain to the buttock and legs. According to the Cleveland Clinic, most pain associated with a herniated disc can be managed with rest, physical therapy and exercise.

Degenerative diseases refer to medical problems that worsen over time. These degenerative diseases may affect the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord), bones, blood vessels or heart. Sometimes, certain medications and therapies can treat these degenerative diseases.

If your ribs are cracking while stretching, pain is likely present as well. A rib fracture, costochondritis and sprain can all result in cracking if the rib cage is stretched. Consult your doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

The deltoid is a three-headed muscle that consists of the anterior deltoid, lateral deltoid and the posterior deltoid. The anterior deltoid is involved in many chest-related movements. If this muscle becomes tight, it can alter your posture and can put you at risk for injury.

Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes widespread muscle pain and fatigue. The Arthritis Foundation lists it as one of the more then one hundred forms of arthritis, however the current belief is that the symptoms are caused by an overactive nervous system.

Magnesium is a mineral crucial to the proper function of your muscles, kidneys and heart. It is the fourth most abundant mineral in your body, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Only 1 percent of your bodily magnesium is in your bloodstream, while a majority is stored in your cells and bones.