These three get used almost interchangeably, but they're different things, and knowing which one you're dealing with changes what actually helps.
Tightness
A restricted, stiff feeling without sharp pain — often gradual, and often improves with movement or massage. This is the most common thing remedial massage addresses.
Soreness
Usually linked to a specific session — a hard workout, an unfamiliar movement, a big jump in training volume. Typically peaks a day or two afterwards and resolves on its own within a few days. Massage can help it feel more comfortable, but it will generally settle regardless.
Injury
Sharper, more specific, and often linked to a particular moment or movement rather than building gradually. May come with swelling, weakness, or pain that doesn't ease with rest — or gets worse. This is the category that needs proper assessment rather than massage.
When it's genuinely hard to tell
If you're not sure which category you're in, that's a reasonable reason to get assessed rather than guess — our osteopath can help work out what's actually going on.
Not sure which you're dealing with?
Get in touch, or book a remedial massage if it's clearly general tightness.
Book online or call the clinic on (03) 4054 1621.
