Injury Massage
Injury massage focuses on patterns of muscle guarding and compensation that can develop around an injured area. When movement or function changes after an injury, surrounding muscles may tighten and other muscles may work harder to protect or compensate for the affected area. Over time, these patterns can contribute to overworked muscles, trigger points, persistent pain, stiffness, and restricted movement. Through careful hands-on assessment, problem areas of muscular tension and restriction are identified and addressed with focused bodywork.
How Injuries Can Affect Muscles and Movement
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Injuries can affect more than the area where pain is felt. When muscles, tendons, ligaments, or bones are injured, the body may protect the affected area by changing how it moves. Surrounding muscles can tighten, while other muscles take on additional work to compensate. These protective and compensatory patterns may continue even after the initial injury has improved, contributing to overworked muscles, trigger points, persistent pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion.
The Benefits of Injury Massage
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Muscle strains and injury-related muscle tension
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Pain and stiffness after an injury
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Muscle guarding and compensation
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Tight or overworked muscles around an injured area
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Trigger points that develop after injury
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Restricted or uncomfortable movement
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Post-surgical muscle tightness and compensation
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Long-standing muscular problems following an injury
When Is Injury Massage Appropriate?
Injury massage is not intended for a fresh injury with acute swelling, inflammation, or severe pain. Allow the initial acute stage to settle and seek medical evaluation when appropriate before receiving massage. For injuries involving surgery, fractures, or significant tissue damage, medical clearance may be needed before massage begins.