How can Remedial Massage help with Chronic Shoulder pain?

Shoulder pain can be a persistent nuisance, whether it’s a sudden twinge from an awkward lift, nagging ache that’s lingered for months or a once frozen shoulder that has never been the same. Acute shoulder problems often stem from injuries like strains or rotator cuff tears, while chronic issues might tie back to poor posture, repetitive stress, or conditions like frozen shoulder. Fortunately, remedial massage offers targeted solutions to ease discomfort, restore mobility, and tackle both acute and chronic shoulder woes. Techniques like Soft Tissue Release (STR) and Muscle Energy Techniques (MET) stand out as powerful tools in this approach. Let’s explore how they work and why they’re game-changers for shoulder health.

Remedial massage goes beyond relaxation—it’s a therapeutic method that addresses the root causes of pain by working on muscles, fascia, and joints. For shoulder problems, it’s particularly effective because the shoulder is a complex, mobile joint prone to tension and imbalance. Acute injuries often bring inflammation and tightness, while chronic conditions lead to adhesions or restricted movement. A skilled therapist can use remedial techniques to break this cycle, promoting healing and flexibility.

Soft Tissue Release (STR) is a precision technique that combines stretching with specific pressure to release tight muscles and fascia. Imagine a knot in your shoulder—STR targets it directly. The therapist applies pressure to a tight spot (say, in the trapezius or deltoid) while guiding your arm through a controlled stretch. This “lock and stretch” method breaks up scar tissue, boosts blood flow, and realigns muscle fibers.

For acute shoulder pain—like a strain from lifting—STR can reduce inflammation and prevent stiffness from setting in. For chronic issues, such as ongoing rotator cuff tension, it helps loosen adhesions that limit your range of motion. Clients often feel immediate relief, with improved movement after just one session. Regular STR can even prevent future flare-ups by keeping tissues supple and balanced.

Muscle Energy Techniques (MET) take a more active approach, using your own muscle contractions to unlock shoulder stiffness. The therapist positions your shoulder at its limit (e.g., where it starts to resist), then asks you to push against their resistance for a few seconds. After you relax, they guide the joint further into a stretch. This process “tricks” tight muscles—like the pectoralis minor or infraspinatus—into releasing and lengthening.

MET shines for both acute and chronic shoulder problems. After an injury, it restores joint function without forcing painful movement. For chronic conditions like frozen shoulder, it gradually expands mobility while strengthening supporting muscles. It’s also a fantastic way to correct posture-related imbalances, which often underlie long-term shoulder pain.

Why Choose Remedial Massage?

Unlike generic massages, remedial techniques like STR and MET are tailored to your specific shoulder issue and a good therapist will always know which to use and when. These techniques address pain at its source, whether it’s a fresh injury or a years-old ache. Plus,

they complement other therapies—like stretching or physiotherapy—speeding up recovery. At LS Therapy, we’ve seen clients regain comfort and confidence through these methods, often avoiding more invasive treatments.

Shoulder pain doesn’t have to hold you back. With remedial massage, acute flare-ups can heal faster, and chronic problems can finally ease. Ready to move freely again? Book a session today and discover how STR and MET can transform your shoulder health.