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84 m a s s a g e & b o d y w o r k s e p t e m b e r / o c t o b e r 2 0 2 0 When a client presents with soft-tissue pain, muscle problems are usually one of the first issues massage therapists will suspect. The focus of massage training emphasizes muscles, so it is no surprise that muscle dysfunction is something we would focus on. Muscle dysfunction or injuries also account for a large number of common soft-tissue pathologies, so emphasis on muscle involvement is certainly warranted. Muscles are likely involved in many complaints, but what is the actual pathology affecting those muscles? It is essential we understand what type of muscle problem may be at the root of our client's complaint. There are many types of muscle dysfunction, which we'll explore in greater detail for a better understanding of what may be happening with our clients. technique CLINICAL EXPLORATIONS Overview of Muscle Pathologies By Whitney Lowe MUSCULAR HYPERTONICITY Muscular hypertonicity is the most common muscular dysfunction we see as massage therapists. Almost every client will complain of certain areas that feel tight and painful. Despite occurring so frequently, muscular hypertonicity is not often diagnosed as a primary pathology. It is usually considered a secondary response to other problems. Perhaps the idea of tight muscles is too simple to be considered an orthopedic "condition"? The term muscle tension is frequently used to indicate muscular hypertonicity. However, the term tension can be confusing. Biomechanically, tension indicates a pulling force. So technically, muscle tension would indicate a pulling force on the muscle. Muscle tightness results from an increased rate of contraction stimulus. As a result, the muscle has a higher degree of resting tonus than it normally would. There are various factors that can lead to increased contraction stimulus and hypertonicity. Mechanical overload,