Many individuals get better without treatment within the first 2 months after a trauma. However, pain or poor posture can perpetuate soft tissue and joint dysfunctions. Injuries can heal with tightness and cause significant soft tissue changes and restrictions. It is most crucial to restore normal movement and strength to injured areas during the first several months after trauma. Goals are to regain full joint mobility free from adhesions (or scar tissue) and to restore strength to the area. Acute treatment can involve modalities, education, gentle mobility and stabilization exercises that can prevent a chronic problem from developing.