Life can be full of tension—both figuratively and literally! From sitting hunched over a desk to carrying heavy bags or even just dealing with stress, we all know what it's like to feel tight, stiff, and sore. These uncomfortable sensations are often the result of muscle knots, those irritating lumps in your muscles that just won't go away. In this article, we will find answers to what muscle knots are, the symptoms they cause, how to get rid of muscle knots, and how you can prevent them in the future.
What is a Muscle Knot?
A muscle knot is exactly what the name describes – a sensitive, small, and hardened spot on your muscle. Also known by the name of myofascial trigger point, these knots form when muscle fibers or bands of tissue contract and fail to relax.
There are two types of muscle knots – active and latent. An active trigger point hurts you when you don't touch it. While, a latent point only hurts you whenever you touch or press it. Muscle knots are commonly found on the body parts like the shoulders, back, neck, and pelvis.
What are the Symptoms of Muscle Knots?
Identifying muscle knots early can help you address the problem before it becomes more serious. Here are the most common symptoms –
Tightness & Pain
If you have a persistent feeling of tightness in the affected area, then you need to be concerned about that. This tightness often causes localized pain that can be sharp or dull, depending on the severity of the knot.
Tenderness
When the knot is tender to touch and pressing it is causing discomfort to you, then this could be the symptom you need to watch out for. At such times, dealing with daily activities like stretching or lifting objects becomes more difficult than usual.
Stiffness
Your body becoming stiff is yet another sign of a muscle knot. For instance – if you are finding it challenging to twist or, bend it, or turn your head, consult a professional physiotherapist.
Soreness
Pain caused by muscle knots may radiate to other areas of the body, giving rise to soreness. For example – knots on the shoulder might spread down to your arms or even up to the neck.
Fatigue
Muscle knots don't work efficiently, resulting in fatigue. When fatigued, your body has to expend more energy to move or hold a position, which leaves you feeling tired and worn out even after light activities.
Best Treatment Options to Get Rid of Muscle Knot
Fortunately, muscle knots are treatable, and there are several techniques that can help alleviate the discomfort –
Get a Massage
The first one in the list is getting a massage. It is one of the most effective ways to release tension from the muscle knots. So, if you are thinking about how to get rid of muscle knots, it's time to consult a massage specialist and experience a relaxing massage. Get massage therapy in Brampton to focus on your sore spots and loosen the muscle knots.
Try Massage Gun & Foam Roller
How about using a massage gun or foam rollers if getting a massage is not feasible for you? Well, massage guns act like a percussive form of therapy that has the power to reach deep into the muscle tissue and break up the knots. Foam rollers are great for knots in the back of the neck or for larger muscle groups like calves and thighs.
Get Consultation from a Profession Physiotherapist
Image alt text: Treatment from professional physiotherapist
When you are in excruciating pain, consultation with a physiotherapist is what you require. A professional physiotherapist assesses the severity of your condition and then offers possible treatment options like stretches or exercises. Book your appointment right now from physiotherapy in Brampton and get personalized advice on how to get rid of muscle knots.
Try Acupuncture Therapy
Acupuncture is the treatment option that involves the use of thin needles to the affected parts of the body to improve the energy flow. If you are thinking of how to get rid of knots in your neck or anywhere in the body, you can try acupuncture. This treatment option increases the blood flow to the affected area, produces more pleasure-inducing endorphins, and improves your overall condition. Want to know what it feels like to have one? Get acupuncture therapy in Brampton today.
How to Prevent Muscle Knots?
While treating muscle knots is important, preventing them from happening in the first place is even better. With a few lifestyle changes and healthy habits, you can keep your muscles relaxed and knot-free –
Correct Your Posture
There is no denying the fact that screen time of everyone has increased to a large extent, which is giving rise to muscle knots. Whether you're sitting at a desk, driving, or standing for long periods, maintaining a neutral spine and keeping your shoulders relaxed can help prevent knots from forming. If shoulder blade pain is a recurring issue, adjusting your posture throughout the day is essential for relief. To know more, read how to get rid of shoulder blade pain and improve your well-being. Also, maintain a body-friendly position and invest in ergonomic workstations to get rid of a knot in your neck or other parts of the body.
Cope with Stress
Stress is an inevitable part of everyone's life. And let me tell you that there are increased chances to develop muscle knots when you are under the wire. Try the activities that help relieve you, as coping with the stress in a healthy manner tends to improve your overall well-being.
Remain Hydrated
Water hydrates your connective tissues and stops them from producing restrictions in the body. So, drink plenty of water to keep your muscles functioning properly.
Do Exercise Daily
Get moving to prevent cramps. Exercise aids in keeping up with the blood flow to all the muscles. Include quick hits of movement in your routine, as doing a few stretches or a little exercise can go a long way in maintaining your health.
Final Thoughts
Muscle knots may be a common and frustrating issue, but they are far from untreatable. By taking preventive measures as listed above, you can say goodbye to knots.
And if those stubborn knots are still holding you back, why not take the next step toward relief with the RMT Movement? Our skilled Massage Therapists (RMTs) specialize in targeting muscle tension and helping you achieve long-lasting comfort. Whether you're dealing with chronic knots or simply need some expert guidance to keep your muscles in tip-top shape, RMT Movement is here to help. Book a session today, and let us work out the kinks so you can get back to moving freely and living pain-free!
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