this technique focuses on the web of tissue spanning our entire body
slow, consistent pressure loosens adhesion
trigger points are shortened areas of muscle which when pressed on or contracted shoot pain into other areas
utilizes firm consistent pressure on areas of muscle stuck in a shortened position
this triggers
increase in circulation of oxygen and nutrients
autogenic inhibition (tells muscle fibers to relax)
This technique
position for ideal muscle contraction
client contracts muscle (type of contraction will be determined case by case) at 20-50% power against massage therapists' resistance and holds for 3-10 seconds
clients relaxes
Massage therapist performs assisted stretch for 10-30 seconds
repeat 3-5 times
Massage therapist will move your body to a position that eases your pain and hold that position for 90-120 seconds then slowly undo the positioning
This tells the muscle fibers its safe to relax when they are tightened due to overuse or injury.
(teaches your nervous system that movement will not cause pain or injury therefore your body will turn off the shorten-to-avoid-movement reflex)
you have stabbing or burning muscle pain that radiates or travels
you have chronic pain from overuse/repetitive motions/sitting too much
you are an athlete
This massage is usually performed partially or completely disrobed with only the region with worked on undraped.
To begin with:
light to medium pressure and moderate length strokes to stimulate blood flow and assess muscle then I will begin to utilize specific techniques, often involving slow, sustained pressure and localized stretching.
Afterwards, range of motion and pain levels should be improved, there may be mild to moderate soreness in areas we did heavy work. Make sure to hydrate.
Always consult a doctor.
This modality should not be used
in cases of acute injury
during autoimmune disease flare ups