Stiff, sore or tired muscles, a bruise or a sprained ankle. We instinctively often reach for heat or cold treatment, respectively. A warming gel on the muscles, a cold compress on the sprain; it reduces pain and swelling.

Tense shoulders, a stiff neck, and lower back pain. These are all signs that your body needs to relax. If you don't relax on time and keep holding onto stress and tension in your body, there is a good chance that your discomfort will turn into chronic complaints. This can manifest itself in poor sleep, injuries throughout the body, and even chronic pain.

Ouch, a knot! Everyone has probably had it happen at some point, whether you play sports or not: A painful spot where the muscles cramp up. Sometimes with a clearly identifiable cause, sometimes spontaneously. These are "trigger points", also called "muscle knots": a painful hardening in muscles that no longer can relax. This can cause pain, as well as a feeling of stiffness or restricted movement.

Stiff muscles, persistent pain, an overall feeling of discomfort? Your muscles get put under a lot of strain during a long day of work behind your desk or after a solid workout. A good massage is the best way to get your muscles supple again. And for that you don’t always have to go to a masseur. There are pocket-sized masseurs with which you can get started on your own, such as a massage gun!