When Something Feels Tight, It Doesn’t Always Need to Be Stretched
A lot of people stretch because something feels tight.
But there’s a difference between a muscle that is truly tight and one that feels tight.
A truly tight structure actually limits motion—you can’t get from point A to point B.
Something that feels tight often still allows full range of motion. That sensation is commonly the body’s way of protecting a position or load it doesn’t feel ready for yet.
In those cases, stretching more can backfire.
Giving a muscle more length when it already has enough range can create more motion than the body can control, which can lead to more irritation, not less.
Often, what helps most is improving strength, control, and tolerance, not forcing more stretch.
Not everything that feels tight needs to be stretched.
Sometimes it needs to be supported.
Not sure whether you should be stretching or strengthening?
That’s exactly what a proper evaluation is for.
If you’re unsure what your body actually needs, you can request an appointment and we’ll help you sort it out with a plan that fits your movement, not a generic template.
Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Movement limitations and symptoms vary, and care should be individualized based on a proper evaluation by a licensed healthcare professional.
