01/06/2026
Why stretching alone is no longer enough!
Have you ever had a difficult time getting into the "proper stretching position" because your body is feeling "tight" ?
Have you ever felt like you "constantly need to stretch"?
You're definitely not alone!
Tight muscles often seem like the culprit when something hurts, and it’s tempting to try stretching for relief.
While stretching can be helpful in the moment, it doesn’t always solve the actual problem. In many cases, pain comes from muscles that aren’t strong enough or from movement patterns that put too much stress on one area.
Stretching alone can’t fix that!
Understanding the difference between muscle STRETCHING vs. STRENGTHENING vs. MOBILITY is key to lasting relief. More often, a more complete approach identifying the underlying cause of pain and restoring your body’s flexibility, along with strengthening is key for muscles and developing better movement habits!
Here are some key points to consider!
WEAKNESS, NOT JUST TIGHTNESS ~
Muscles often tighten up as a protective measure when they are weak or overworked. In such cases, strengthening the muscle is more effective for long-term relief and stability than merely stretching it.
JOINT INSTABILITY ~
If a joint is unstable due to injury or hypermobility, the surrounding muscles will tighten to provide a compensatory form of stability. Stretching against this protective tension can be counterproductive and increase the risk of injury.
NEED FOR MOBILITY (Flexibility + Strength)~
Flexibility is only one component of healthy movement. True mobility requires being able to control your movement throughout a full range of motion with sufficient strength. Mobility training, which combines flexibility and strength exercises , offers more comprehensive benefits than stretching in isolation.
ADDRESSING ROOT CAUSE OF PAIN~
Pain or discomfort may stem from issues stretching cannot fix, such as scar tissue, inflammation, or problems with the nervous system. Massage therapy can help address muscular imbalances and can be necessary in order to target specific restriction points.
INJURY PREVENTION ~
While stretching has its benefits, it is not a cure-all for injury prevention. A proper warm-up with dynamic movements and a well-rounded fitness plan incorporating strength and cardiovascular
training are essential for overall physical well-being.
INDIVIDUAL NEEDS~
Not everyone has the same flexibility needs. The "tight" muscle you feel might not be the one that needs attention. Talking with your RMT, Chiropractor or Physiotherapist is always helpful in identifying what you may need!
If you have any more questions about this, let's chat more during your next massage treatment!
