What causes muscle adhesions?
Did you know that one of the common causes of chronic pain is muscle adhesions? While your body’s repair process is natural, it can leave behind fibrous tissue also known as scar tissue. Sometimes this build up of scar tissue can adhere between the affected muscle and any neighboring connective tissue which can cause movement restrictions, flexibility reduction, and pain.
The adhesion caused by the scar tissue build up often goes unnoticed because it can form long after the initial injury. Usually when the initial pain of the injury goes away, we often think “Ok, I’m completely healed.” After some time, there can be residual tightness or restricted range of motion near or on the injury site which seems unexplained. With a proper assessment, it can be determined if the tightness/limited range of motion is due to muscle adhesions.
How adhesions commonly develop
Muscle Tears
Any strain or rupture of the muscle causing it to be overstretched. An extreme injury usually results in severe swelling. Some possible injuries: pulling a muscle while skiing, a golf swing gone wrong, or even a minor car accident leading to whiplash. These events can cause damage, and as the body repairs itself, adhesions can form on the muscles involved in the incident.
Micro-Tears
Small but cumulative injuries occur from repetitive motions such as intense resistance training like weightlifting, high-impact exercises, eccentric movements (muscle lengthening while contracting), starting a new exercise program, or performing exercises with improper form. No matter how small the tear, adhesions eventually lead to build up and can affect mobility and function.
Sustained Contractions
Holding muscles in a fixed, tight position for long periods is another major culprit such as slouching over your desk during back-to-back meetings, texting with your head tilted forward, or long-haul flights where posture is compromised. These positions reduce blood flow, and when oxygen can’t reach the muscles, adhesions can develop.
Why it matters
Adhesions are more than just a minor inconvenience. Left untreated, they can restrict movement, cause chronic pain, and reduce your ability to perform both at work and in your active lifestyle.
How to treat adhesions
Acupuncture: Precise target on adhesions by breaking down fibrotic tissue, improving blood flow, and restoring mobility.
Active Release Technique (ART): Manually addresses adhesions - releasing tension and improving range of motion.
By addressing the root cause of adhesions, these techniques provide lasting relief while preventing further scar tissue buildup, keeping you active and pain-free for the long run.
Does this sound familiar?
If you’re experiencing pain, stiffness, or limited mobility that is slowing you down in your daily life or favorite activities, come in for an assessment and address your issues.