A muscle tension can appear after physical exertion, prolonged posture, repetitive movements, or a period of stress. When it persists, it can be accompanied by a sensation of stiffness, tightness, or difficulty relaxing certain muscles.
But what actually happens in the body when muscles remain tense? What role do the deep muscles and fascia play? And how can wellness massage support the return to a sensation of relaxation and mobility?
In this article, let's discover the mechanisms involved and the value of a global body approach.
Prolonged muscle tension: what happens in the muscles and fascia?
The body is constantly subject to demands: physical activity, prolonged posture, repetitive movements, stress, working in front of a screen, or sports efforts. In certain situations, muscles can remain under tension for a prolonged period and have increasing difficulty returning to their natural state of relaxation.
A prolonged muscle tension does not only concern superficial muscles. Deep muscles as well as fascia, which constitute a vast network of connective tissues around and between the different structures of the body, can also be involved.
What happens when a muscle stays tense for too long?
A muscle normally functions by alternating contraction and relaxation. This ability to adapt allows it to produce movement, maintain posture, and respond to various daily demands.
When the tension becomes excessive or prolonged, the muscle can remain in a state of hypertonicity, meaning it has a higher muscle tone than necessary at rest.
This situation can be accompanied by several sensations:
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muscle stiffness;
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sensation of tension or tightness;
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decrease in flexibility;
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discomfort during certain movements;
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sensation of "knotted" muscles or muscles that are difficult to relax;
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muscle fatigue.
The muscle may then feel as if it is constantly being used, even when the body is at rest.
Deep muscles can also be involved
When we talk about muscle tension, we often think of muscles that are visible or easily palpable. However, some tensions can also affect deep muscles.
These muscles participate in maintaining posture and the stability of the body. They sometimes work continuously to maintain a position or control a movement.
Repeated exertion, prolonged posture, or a lack of recovery can contribute to keeping certain muscle groups in a state of tension.
Relaxing deep muscles generally requires a progressive and adapted approach, as they are located beneath the superficial muscle layers.
What role does the fascia play?
Fascia are connective tissues that envelop, separate, and connect the muscles and various structures of the body. They form a continuous network that contributes to the organization and gliding of tissues.
When tissues are subject to repeated stress, their mobility may feel diminished. Certain areas may then give an impression of rigidity, tension, or lack of flexibility.
Manual work on the tissues aims in particular to promote their mobility and sliding capacity.
It is important to clarify that fascia are not "blocked" structures in the literal sense: their behavior depends on many mechanical and physiological factors, and the sensations felt during a massage do not, on their own, allow for a precise determination of the state of a tissue.
Why does the body need relaxation?
Recovery is an integral part of muscle function. After physical exertion or a prolonged period of maintaining a posture, the return to relaxation allows the neuromuscular system to progressively recover a more adapted level of tension.
Movement, breathing, adapted physical activity, appropriate stretching, and certain manual techniques can contribute to this feeling of relaxation.
Wellness massage can specifically contribute to reducing the sensation of tension and promoting a perception of general body relaxation.
How does massage act on muscle tension?
During a massage, the pressure, mobilizations, and movements applied to the tissues stimulate various sensory receptors. This stimulation can influence the perception of pain and tension and promote a feeling of relaxation.
Massage can also help to temporarily improve the perceived mobility of certain areas and favor recovery after muscle exertion.
The goal is not to "break" a tension or force a muscle to relax, but rather to progressively accompany the tissues toward greater comfort and mobility.
An adapted approach takes into account the worked area, the sensitivity of the person, and their general state.
Muscle tension and stress: a cycle that can take hold
Stress can also influence the way we use our muscles. In certain situations, the body spontaneously adopts a more contracted posture: raised shoulders, clenched jaw, tense back, or shallower breathing.
When this situation repeats daily, certain tensions can become familiar and be identified less easily.
This is why relaxation does not only concern muscles. It also involves breathing, body perception, and the general ability to return to a state of rest.
Progressively rediscovering a sensation of lightness
When the body is regularly solicited, it is essential to grant it recovery time.
A holistic approach can combine massage, mobility, breathing, relaxation, and adapted physical activity in order to promote a better perception of the body and its needs.
Massage does not replace a medical diagnosis or treatment. In case of persistent, significant, or unusual pain, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional to determine the cause.
In summary
Prolonged muscle tension can be accompanied by an increase in muscle tone, a sensation of stiffness, and a decrease in comfort or mobility. Superficial as well as deep muscles can be involved, while connective tissues, especially the fascia, also participate in the overall mechanics of the body.
Massage and body relaxation techniques can help promote a sensation of relaxation, mobility, and well-being.
Taking the time to listen to your body, moving regularly, and offering it periods of recovery constitutes an essential component of good body hygiene.
Why are my muscles constantly tense?
A sensation of muscle tension can be associated with many factors: physical activity, prolonged posture, repetitive movements, lack of recovery, or stress. When this sensation persists or is accompanied by pain, a healthcare professional can help determine the cause.
What is a muscle under tension?
A muscle under tension presents a high level of tone. After exertion, it should normally be able to gradually return to a state of relaxation. When the sensation of tension persists, it can be accompanied by stiffness or discomfort.
Can deep muscles be tense?
Yes. Deep muscles participate in particular in the posture and stability of the body. They can be solicited for a prolonged period, especially when maintaining certain positions.
What is the role of the fascia?
Fascia are connective tissues that surround and connect different structures of the body, including muscles. They participate in the organization and sliding of tissues.
Can massage relax muscles?
Massage can promote a sensation of relaxation and muscle release. Mechanical and sensory stimulation can also influence the perception of tension and physical comfort.
When to consult for muscle tension?
Unusual, persistent, significant, or tension associated with other symptoms deserves medical advice. Wellness massage does not replace a medical diagnosis or treatment.
Does your body need to release pressure?
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