An injury can change the way the body moves long after the initial pain has improved. A strained muscle may remain tight. A joint can become stiff. Surrounding muscle groups may also start compensating for the injured area, creating new movement restrictions and discomfort.
This is why recovering from an injury is not always as simple as waiting for the pain to disappear. Restoring normal motion is an essential part of healing, and addressing chronic muscle tension can help make that process more effective.