Home › Physical Conditions › Muscle Tension & Stiffness

Muscle Tension & Stiffness

Tight, aching or knotted muscles from stress, exercise, posture or everyday life.

What is Muscle Tension & Stiffness?

Muscle tension and stiffness are very common and can come from stress, long hours at a desk, physical work, exercise or simply not moving enough. Tight muscles can feel sore and knotted and may limit how freely you move.

Regular movement, stretching, good sleep and treatment to release tight areas can make a big difference to how you feel.

Common signs

  • Tight, sore or knotted muscles
  • Feeling stiff after sitting or sleeping
  • Aching after exercise or physical work
  • Reduced flexibility
  • Tension that builds up with stress

How can therapists help?

Massage is one of the most popular ways to relieve muscle tension — deep tissue, sports, Swedish and trigger point massage all help in different ways. Myofascial release, cupping and stretching-based practices such as yoga and Pilates can also help keep muscles supple.

Deep tissue massage Swedish / full body massage Sports massage Myofascial release Cupping
Find a therapist near you who treats muscle tension & stiffness
Choose a type of therapist and enter your postcode to see verified therapists in your area.
Or browse all deep tissue massage.

Related articles

Body Treatments
Gua Sha and Body Scraping: Ancient Technique, Modern Wellness Trend
Gua sha has exploded in popularity on social media, but the technique has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries. Here is what it actually does.
Physical Therapies
Physiotherapy vs Massage: Which One Do You Need?
Both physiotherapy and massage therapy can help with pain and mobility — but they serve different purposes. Here's how to choose the right treatment.
Physical Therapies
Chiropractic vs Osteopathy: What's the Difference and Which Do You Need?
Both chiropractors and osteopaths treat back and joint pain, but their training and techniques differ. Here's how to work out which one is right for you.
This page is for general information only and is not a diagnosis or a substitute for medical advice. If your pain is severe, came on after a serious injury, is getting worse, or comes with symptoms such as numbness, weakness, fever or loss of bladder or bowel control, speak to your GP or call NHS 111 — or 999 in an emergency.

Other physical conditions

Back Pain Neck & Shoulder Pain Sciatica Migraines & Headaches Arthritis & Joint Pain Fibromyalgia Sports Injuries Knee Pain Hip Pain Plantar Fasciitis & Foot Pain Tennis & Golfer's Elbow RSI & Carpal Tunnel Frozen Shoulder Whiplash Jaw Pain (TMJ) Posture Problems