Michael Strøm
International speaker and expert in shockwave and EMTT treatments for men's sexual health.
In this article
Why Does Muscle Tension Return?
Persistent tension can have several causes. It may be that the total load exceeds the body’s current capacity, that one area is compensating for altered movement elsewhere, or that pain leads to a persistent protective response. Sleep, stress, activity level, and previous injuries can also play a role.
This doesn’t mean the muscle is necessarily shortened or needs to be “loose” with a lot of force. I assess both the sensitivity of the tissue and your movement function, because that often reveals more than just one tender spot.
What do I examine?
I look at the duration and pattern of the symptoms: When is it at its worst? What makes it worse or better? What have you tried? Then I assess range of motion, relevant strength, daily physical demands, and the surrounding structures.
If necessary, I discuss whether further evaluation by a doctor or another specialist is the right course of action. My goal is not to attribute every symptom to a fascia or muscle problem.
Treatment must be followed by function
Some people benefit primarily from tailored exercise, adjustments to their activity levels, or guidance. Others may benefit from manual therapy or a targeted supplement that makes it easier to get moving.
When appropriate, I use HumanTecar or other treatment methods as part of a comprehensive plan. Technology isn’t automatically more effective than exercise, and having multiple treatments on the same day isn’t a goal in itself.
What matters most is whether the treatment helps you regain a function you’ve lost—and whether the benefits last as you go about your daily life.
What goals can we set?
Together, we’ll set a few specific goals, such as:
- take a longer walk without discomfort
- sit or stand more comfortably
- return to an activity or sport
- perform a specific movement with less difficulty
A simple functional score and pain assessment can be used to monitor progress. If an intervention does not produce the expected results, I reassess the diagnosis and treatment plan rather than repeating the same treatment without justification.
When tension is centered around the pelvis
Muscle tension around the hips, buttocks, lower back, and perineum can be closely linked to pelvic pain and altered pelvic floor function. With these symptoms, it’s important to assess the muscles, nerve involvement, and any issues with urination or sexual function.
In such cases, a specialized pelvic treatment program may be more appropriate than general treatment for muscle tension. Read about a tight pelvic floor and about connective tissue and fascia.
Start with a thorough assessment
Do you have tension or soreness that isn’t getting better over time?
Book a no-obligation consultation, and I’ll assess whether an individual evaluation at MS Insight is the right next step.
I start by understanding the problem—and only then do I choose a treatment.