Prevalence and Characteristics of Muscle Tightness in Young Adults

Abstract

In young adults, muscle sprains and strains leading to muscle tightness are considered short-term and believed to have no ill effects on quality of life. However, recent advances in the science indicate that muscle tightness is an invisible condition that can limit life activities. The objective of this study was to identify the prevalence and characteristics of muscle tightness in young adults. The study used descriptive quantitative design. One hundred individuals aged between 18 and 27 years completed a survey based upon a validated muscle tightness measurement tool. Seventy-two percent of participants reported experiencing muscle tightness that limited their daily living and recreational activities. Fifty-six percent reported experiencing pain with muscle tightness. Women were more likely than men to experience muscle tightness. Awareness, prompt evaluation, and treatment of this condition are key to preventing negative consequences associated with chronic muscle tightness.