A. If an injury to a muscle occurs or if the muscle has not been used vigorously for some time, it has the tendency to shorten or cramp into its shortened form. If left in this position, it will become painful and swollen, giving the feeling of being tied in a knot. The act of stretching helps elongate the muscle into a more neutral position, thereby improving function.
Tight or cramped muscles can affect joint function and range of motion. If a chronically cramped or spasmed muscle is exercised, further injury can occur by pulling the muscle apart and tearing its fibers causing additional injury.
