Graded exposure is a rehabilitation approach where movements or activities you've been avoiding are reintroduced in small, manageable steps.
Why it helps
Each successful step provides evidence that the movement is tolerable. Over time, this can reduce fear and protective guarding, and expand what you're able to do.
What it looks like
For someone afraid of bending, that might start with a supported hip hinge, then reaching toward the knees, then picking up a light object from a box — progressing based on how they respond.
This article is educational and isn't a substitute for an individual medical evaluation.