SOFT TISSUE TREATMENTS

Resolving muscular dysfunctions by increasing blood flow and improving neurological output

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Various soft tissue treatments may be used to help restore normal function to muscle groups.

When the body experiences an injury or improper use, the brain sends out protection mechanisms to prevent you from using the affected regions in those ways. Two of these mechanisms include pain and muscle response patterns, which both indicate that a certain region has been exposed to an unnatural state. As part of its response, the muscle experiences compromised blood flow and neurological signaling from the brain telling it how to perform its natural contract and relax cycles. Over time this may lead to a dysfunction in the muscle often referred to as a knot, trigger point, or what some may acknowledge as general tightness. 

The idea with soft tissue techniques is that direct stimulation of the muscles and its surrounding fascia helps to increase blood flow and neurological signaling to those regions, which together help put the muscle in a more natural state of function. 

Trigger Point Release

Manual pressure is applied over painful localized regions within the belly of a muscle. Constant deep pressure registers in the spinal cord and brain as a signal for the muscle to relax and release its tension.

Active Release Technique (ART)

ART utilizes a “pin and stretch” approach to introduce greater flexibility to the muscle.

Graston Technique

An instrument assisted device is used to release adhesion between muscles and fascia to allow for greater fluidity of motion.

Cupping

Cupping involves heavy suction over muscle bellies that helps to increase blood flow to those regions. 

*With any of the previously mentioned treatments, soreness, redness, or bruising may present as part of the body's natural healing response.