Overview
Manual therapy technique involving using the hands to push, pull, and knead soft tissues (muscles, fascia, tendons, ligaments)
The goals of manual therapy include:
Release tension and restrictions in soft tissue to improve range of motion and function
Break down adhesions (bands of scar tissue) between soft tissue to improve range of motion and function
Increase blood flow to the area to promote tissue healing and reduce inflammation
Decrease pain by releasing endorphins and relaxing the nervous system
When to Use
When a patient has soft tissue impairments that are limiting their range of motion, function, and causing pain
In general, soft tissue mobilization is performed on almost every patient
Techniques
Common soft tissue mobilization techniques are:
Sustained pressure: Applying consistent pressure directly on the tissue
Unlocking spiral: Alternating clockwise and counterclockwise motions to release tissue tension
Direct oscillations: Applying rhythmic, oscillating pressure to the tissue
Perpendicular mobilization: Pushing on the tissue from perpendicular/right angles to its fibers
Parallel mobilization: Pushing along the natural direction of the tissue
Perpendicular strumming: Applying rhythmic pressure along the muscle border, followed by gentle rubbing
Friction massage: Applying cross-fiber pressure to break up adhesion in the soft tissue
Precautions
Open wounds in the treatment area (avoid going over or near the area)
Recent surgery
Contraindications
Active infection in the treatment area
Rheumatoid arthritis flare-up
Severe skin conditions such as burns
Cancer in the treatment area
Blood clot in the treatment area
Severe osteoporosis
References
https://ptcentral.org/primary-services/soft-tissue-mobilization/