Holistic manual therapy with a fascial focus:
The fascia, a continuous web-like structure throughout the body, provides cover and support to muscles (the 'myo' in myofascia), bones, nerves, arteries, veins, and organs. Following trauma, the fascia can lose flexibility, resulting in tightness and rigidity, leading to pain and reduced motion. Our manual therapy is a hands-on approach rooted in a comprehensive understanding of the fascial system. Emphasizing myofascial release, this therapeutic technique encompasses various tissue structures, including muscles, ligaments, nerve casings, abdominal fascia, and even the cranial dura. Going beyond traditional massage practices, our manual therapy recognizes the intricate interconnectedness of these structures, addressing potential restrictions or imbalances. Therapists employ nuanced techniques, emphasizing the pivotal role of the fascial system in promoting optimal tissue function and mobility. By addressing intricacies such as ligaments, nerve coverings, abdominal fascia, and protective layers around the brain (cranial dura), our manual therapy offers clients a comprehensive perspective on how this specialized care contributes to overall well-being and balance within the body. |
Common goals in our manual therapy typically involve exploring diverse movement options that enhance flexibility and adaptability, along with refining kinesthetic awareness. Achieving these goals often results in reduced pain, improved functional abilities, and an enhanced overall sense of well-being.
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Muscles & their fascial chains (myofascial release):
Myofascia has two main components: myo, which refers to muscle, and fascia, which is the connective tissue. The myofascial system consists of both superficial and deep layers. The superficial fascia is located just beneath the skin and is responsible for separating the skin from the underlying tissues. It contains a layer of fat and plays a role in insulation and cushioning. The deep fascia, on the other hand, surrounds and separates muscles, bones, nerves, and blood vessels. It forms sheaths around individual muscles and groups of muscles, allowing them to move smoothly against each other. Deep fascia also provides structural support and transmits forces generated by muscle contractions. Myofascial tissue is not only passive support but also has active properties. It contains sensory receptors, such as proprioceptors, which provide feedback about body position and movement. It also contains myofibroblasts, specialized cells that can contract and help regulate tension within the fascial network. The myofascial system is interconnected throughout the body, forming a continuous network. Tension or restrictions in one area can affect other distant areas, leading to potential pain or movement limitations. Short Animation about Myofascial Pain
Normally the fascia should feel pliable and elastic. Myofascia can become restricted, dehydrated, or have a reduction in shear due to injury, surgery, overuse, poor posture, stress, and inactivity. This can result in pain and discomfort.
The most recent research suggests that the benefits of manual therapy might stem from additional physiological processes, such as alterations in biochemistry, water binding, or neural processing, rather than solely from the notion of softening stiff tissue. The ongoing expansion of fascia research is enriching our field and enhancing our comprehension. |
Myofascial Trigger Points:
Within the myofascial system, trigger points are highly sensitive and hyper-irritable areas that can elicit pain and discomfort. These trigger points often develop as a result of muscular overload, trauma, poor posture, or repetitive strain. They can be palpated as taut bands or knots within the muscle tissue. Trigger points not only generate local pain but can also produce referred pain patterns, where the pain is felt in areas distant from the actual point of origin. This phenomenon can be perplexing as the site of pain may not align with the source of the problem. For instance, a trigger point in the shoulder muscle might cause pain that radiates down the arm or into the neck. Moreover, trigger points can contribute to joint stiffness and reduced range of motion. When they develop near a joint, they can inhibit the normal movement of that joint, leading to a sensation of stiffness or restricted mobility. Additionally, trigger points can disrupt muscle activation patterns which can further affect movement coordination and stability. Various therapeutic approaches aim to address trigger points and alleviate their associated symptoms. Massage therapy, manual therapy techniques, foam rolling, and acupuncture are commonly used to target trigger points and restore optimal muscle function. Short Animation about Trigger Points
While trigger points can often be found directly within the muscles where you're feeling pain, it's important to recognize that they usually have more distant sources, such as the neck and spine. In pursuit of comprehensive care, the evaluation and management of the spine are integral components of every treatment session.
The concept of trigger points can be contentious within the medical and scientific communities due to disagreements in definition, identification methods, and underlying mechanisms. Alternative perspectives encompass explanations such as referred pain from underlying structures, peripheral and central sensitization, and neurogenic inflammation. Nevertheless, the trigger point model continues to demonstrate effectiveness as our understanding of it advances. You can view common referral patterns here: triggerpoints.net |
Nerves & Cranium:
A nerve only functions correctly when it is able to move freely within its surrounding structures. When a nerve is fixed or fibrotic, it typically looses its ability to glide and/or stretch in length and may become ischemic (reduced blood supply). Through specific manual therapy techniques, it is possible to identify and release local restrictions in and around the nerves, enabling them to move freely in their surroundings and stay nourished and healthy, which can have positive effects throughout the entire body. Animation of Spinal Nerves (Neck)
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Dura Mater:
Deep to the skull and spine, the dura mater is thick, dense, inelastic, fibrous connective tissue which covers the brain and spinal cord. Working with the cranial bones & spine attached to this structure is beneficial after traumas such as whiplash and concussion, and can be effective for conditions such as headaches and migraines. Any cranial and nerve work can be combined with acupuncture for an even stronger neurological effect. Learn about Dura Mater
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Appointmentsor call us
Tel: (04) 479 4680 Vertical Divider
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ContactLocation: Address and map
63 Ottawa Road, Ngaio, Wellington Email: [email protected] Tel: (04) 479 4680 |