When it comes to dealing with tight muscles, most people assume that they need to stretch. Unfortunately, conventional wisdom suggests that if something is tight, then it must need to be stretched. This may sound like the logical thing to do and may even provide some short-term relief. But does it work?

“Normal” Muscle Stiffness
Muscles can feel tight from being immobile for an extended period, like when sitting in a car or
after strenuous exercise or yard work. Morning muscle stiffness may be due to delayed muscle inset soreness (DMOS) or too soft a mattress. All of these examples make sense. But what about that long-standing muscle tightness that won’t go away?

Sometimes your muscles stiffen because the body senses a problem. The body uses protective reflexes to tighten up one area to protect another. The body is very interlinked, which is why you may experience tightness or pain in entirely unexpected places.
While sometimes stretching may be the answer, in other cases, it might make your situation worse…

Why?
Because the muscle that feels tight may already be in an over-lengthened position. Remember- Pain lies! Our brains perceive both overstretched and shortened muscles as “tight”. Even as a PT, I have experienced this paradox, which is why you need a thorough assessment.

Some Clues
Let’s look at some tell-tale signs that you shouldn’t be stretching a “tight” area. The most obvious clue is when the area you deem “chronically tight” and for which you have stretched religiously, never improves or gets worse. A second clue is that the chiropractic/massage/bodywork you’ve sought (for months or years) has only offered temporary relief at most.
Although this phenomenon can occur anywhere, the primary areas that I encounter this is at the neck, “Iliotibial band” and the low back/hip.

If you are dealing with muscle tightness or soreness, specific corrective movement exercises are the most effective way to not just help you “cope” with pain, but to address the root cause! Simple tailored lifestyle changes to eradicate faulty movement patterns can make your daily tasks easier and get you back to recreational play time.

Are you tired of stretching without relief to your tight muscles? If you said yes, call EmPower Physical Therapy for a FREE Discovery Session at 208-309-0281. As someone who embraces the science of movement, I can help you get back to doing what you love!

In Health,
Kim Mazik, MSPT,CEAC
EmPower Concierge Physical Therapy
208-309-0281
kimmazik@gmail.com