What is the purpose of muscle guarding?

Muscle guarding serves as an involuntary protective response that the body employs to shield itself from further injury. When a body part, such as a joint or muscle, experiences pain or trauma, surrounding muscles may contract and tighten reflexively. This response effectively creates a protective barrier around the affected area, limiting movement that could exacerbate the injury.

By restricting motion, muscle guarding minimizes stress on the injured tissues, providing time for healing and reducing the risk of additional damage. It is a critical mechanism in the body's natural defense system, enabling recovery while also playing a role in the initial management of acute injuries. Thus, the primary purpose of muscle guarding is to prevent further injury by maintaining stability and reducing excessive strain on the affected area.