11/12/2025
Massage therapists can notice a lot more than you realize, from subtle postural imbalances and old injuries to indications of stress or repetitive daily activities. They use their trained hands to detect muscle tension, tissue density, and scar tissue, and observe your body language, breathing patterns, and symmetry to gain a deeper understanding of your physical and emotional health.
What a massage therapist might notice!
Posture and movement
Postural imbalances:
One shoulder higher than the other, head tilting, or uneven hips.
Asymmetry:
Differences in the development or tone of muscles on one side of the body compared to the other, which can point to overuse or injury.
Gait:
The way you walk can reveal patterns of foot pronation or supination.
Freedom of movement:
Limitations or stiffness when a limb is moved during the session.
Tissue and muscle patterns
Muscle tone:
Tight, rigid muscles can indicate stress, while softer muscles might suggest fatigue.
Tension patterns:
A "chain" of tight muscles, like "tech neck" for desk workers, can point to a person's occupation or habits.
Scar tissue:
Old injuries or surgeries that you may have forgotten about.
Tissue density:
Areas where the muscle or skin feels "stuck" or different from surrounding areas.
