Too Much Sitting? Here’s What It’s Doing to Your Body (And How Massage Can Help)

Mathieu Boudreau, RMT
May 21
2 min read

Updated: May 21

Let’s be honest - most of us spend way too much time sitting. Whether you’re stuck at a desk all day, driving around town, or crashing on the couch after work, your body wasn’t built to sit for hours on end. And unfortunately, all that sitting adds up - tension, stiffness, and pain start creeping in before you know it.

A row of empty office chairs and desks representing the effects of prolonged sitting in workplace settings. — An empty office environment highlighting prolonged sitting challenges.

As a Registered Massage Therapist, I see it all the time: tight shoulders, aching lower backs, tension headaches, and sluggish posture that slowly wears people down. But here’s the good news - massage therapy (especially deep tissue massage) is one of the most effective ways to reverse the damage.

Why Prolonged Sitting Hurts

Long hours of sitting can lead to all sorts of issues:

Neck and shoulder tension from hunching over your screen
Lower back pain thanks to poor lumbar support
Rounded posture that throws off your entire alignment
Stiff hips and legs from lack of movement
Even headaches and poor circulation

A man seated at a desk with slouched posture while working at a computer, highlighting office-related strain. — Highlighting bad office posture among workers.

Here’s How Deep Tissue Massage Helps

Deep tissue massage targets the exact areas where tension builds up:

Breaks down stubborn knots in your back, neck, and shoulders
Restores circulation to tired muscles
Improves posture and range of motion
Relieves nerve compression from sitting all day
Leaves you feeling lighter, looser, and more mobile

A client receiving deep tissue massage on the shoulder and upper back to relieve tension and improve mobility. — Manual therapy to release shoulder and upper back tightness.

This isn’t your fluffy spa day massage - we’re talking real, therapeutic work that helps your body feel balanced again.

Common Signs You Need a Reset

If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s time to book a session:

Constant fatigue (even after sleeping)
Stiff neck, back, or hips
Reduced focus or brain fog
Tension headaches or migraines
A general feeling like you’re “stuck” in your own body

Sound familiar? Massage can help you snap out of it and feel more like yourself again.

Easy Fixes to Pair With Massage

You can’t undo hours of sitting overnight—but you can take small steps daily:

Set a timer to move every 30–60 minutes
Stretch your neck, chest, and hips regularly
Use a standing desk or ergonomic chair
Prioritize deep tissue massage as a monthly tune-up
Get outside and walk - every little bit helps!

A clinical massage therapy room setup with anatomical charts, a treatment table, and a calm, professional environment. — This is my treatment room - a clinical space where effective treatment happens.

Ready to Feel Better?

Massage isn’t just a luxury - it’s one of the most effective tools to relieve pain, prevent injuries, and help you move better in your daily life.

If your body’s been begging for a reset, I’ve got you covered. Book your deep tissue massage today and let’s get those knots sorted out. You’ll leave feeling stronger, looser, and recharged.