Both mouse and human fibrotic tumours are known to have elevated levels of solid stress, and the presence of solid stress has been linked with several aspects of tumour pathology, including invasiveness and metastatic potential. Now, in a basic study, investigators have developed three methods for the measurement of solid stress: 2D imaging of spatial distribution; release of solid stress by creating thin tumour slices; and release of solid stress by core biopsy sampling. These methods will enable the development of therapeutics specifically designed to release the mechnical forces exerted on tumours by blood vessels, which partly explains the effectiveness of the repurposed angiotensin receptor inhibitor losartan. These methods might also provide insight into the complex interplay between tumours, fibroblasts and their microenvironment, in addition to facilitating tumour prognosis on the basis of solid stress and elastic energy, both of which can be used as prognostic and diagnostic markers.