Does this sound familiar?
Muscle pain and spasms can show up in different ways. You might notice:
- Tight, tender knots you can feel under the skin
- Muscles that suddenly cramp or seize up
- An ache that lingers for days after exercise
- Stiffness that limits how far you can move
- Pain that spreads from one spot to another area
- Muscles that feel tired, weak or heavy
We'll look at which muscles are tight and why they're working overtime, so the relief lasts longer.
What causes muscle pain and spasms?
Muscles tighten and spasm when they are overloaded, tired or protecting a joint. Common reasons include:
Overuse and training
Doing too much too soon, or repeating the same movement, tires muscles out.
Desk and screen posture
Holding one position for hours keeps the same muscles switched on.
Stress and tension
Stress keeps muscles braced, especially in the neck, shoulders and jaw.
Dehydration
Not drinking enough water can make muscles more prone to cramping.
Stiff joints
Muscles often tighten to guard a joint that isn't moving freely.
Poor sleep
Muscles recover overnight, so too little sleep leaves them tight and sore.
How we treat it
Every treatment starts with listening to your full story and assessing how your muscles and joints move. Your treatment is then tailored to you and may combine:
Chiropractic adjustments
Gentle adjustments to free up stiff joints that muscles may be guarding. The pop is optional.
Mobilisations
Slower, gentle movements to restore range of motion and ease muscle guarding.
Dry needling
Targets stubborn knots and trigger points so tight muscles can release.
Kinesio taping
Supports tired muscles and helps them recover between sessions.
Massage gun therapy
Percussive therapy to release tight, overworked muscles.
Advice for home
Stretches, recovery tips and load advice to stop the spasms coming back.
What to expect at your first visit
Your story
A full case history: where you feel the pain, when it started, what sets it off, and what you'd like to get back to.
Assessment
A postural assessment and orthopaedic and neurological tests to find the cause of your pain.
Treatment and a plan
Treatment where appropriate, plus a clear plan and advice for home. Your initial consultation is 45 to 60 minutes and costs R850; follow-ups are R690.
"Hands down, the best chiro in Cape Town! Melissa is gentle and incorporates a variety of treatment modalities. She sorted out my upper back spasms in a single session."
Muscle pain questions
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on what's causing the tightness, how long you've had it and your goals. We'll talk you through a plan at your first visit and adjust it as you improve.
Does dry needling hurt?
Most people feel a brief twitch or ache as the muscle releases, rather than sharp pain. We'll explain everything first, and dry needling is only used if you're comfortable with it.
I'm nervous about being adjusted. Is there another option?
Yes. Adjustments are only one option. Mobilisations, dry needling, taping and soft tissue work can all be used instead, and nothing is done without your consent.
Can I claim from my medical aid?
You can claim for your sessions from your medical aid. You pay at your session and we email you an invoice to submit to your scheme. Our fees are below standard medical aid rates.
Online Booking
Ready to let those muscles finally relax?
Choose a time that suits you. You will receive confirmation immediately.
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