Soft tissue injuries generally fall into two categories: acute injuries and repetitive strain injuries.

  • Acute injuries occur suddenly from a single event, such as a fall, collision, or forceful impact.

  • Repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) develop gradually over time due to repeated motions that stress the soft tissues.

Understanding Repetitive Strain & Micro-Trauma

With repetitive movements, muscles, fascia, and ligaments can experience micro-trauma—tiny injuries caused by prolonged strain. Initially, micro-trauma may not cause noticeable pain, but it can manifest as muscle tightness, stiffness, or mild discomfort.

The body repairs soft tissue damage by forming scar tissue. Over time, this scar tissue builds up and forms adhesions, which can:

  • Restrict joint motion and flexibility

  • Reduce muscle endurance and strength

  • Impair blood flow and tissue healing

  • Cause pain, tightness, and stiffness

This process sets up a repetitive strain injury cycle, where adhesions further strain the soft tissues, leading to more micro-trauma, additional scar tissue buildup, and eventually chronic pain and dysfunction.

When Soft Tissue Injuries Become Painful

As this cycle continues, muscles lose their ability to handle physical demands, making them more vulnerable to strain, weakness, and injury. Many people experiencing soft tissue pain cannot recall a specific injury but feel discomfort that has progressively worsened over time.

How We Can Help

If you’re experiencing muscle tightness, pain, reduced mobility, or repetitive strain injuries, our evidence-based treatments can help break the cycle, restore function, and prevent further damage.