Janet Travell, M.D. (Staff Physician to President John F. Kennedy) was an early pioneer in the application of myofascial therapies. Today, physicians, chiropractors, and physical therapists all advocate for the use of these methods to reduce pain and dysfunction.
Soft tissue therapies are increasingly being prescribed by physicians to complement traditional medical treatments as a growing body of research documents their efficacy.
When a muscle is strained, chemicals are released that irritate nearby nerve endings. Fluid collects, compressing those same nerves. This cascade leads to a pain experience. Over time, flexibility becomes impaired, perpetuating that experience. Massage activates neurologic pathways that reduce pain while moving these chemicals into your lymphatic system and improving circulation.
End result: you feel better, you move better!
NOW GO OUT AND MOVE!
Health insurance companies, realizing the cost savings from myofascial therapies, frequently cover them as an aspect of your care.
These methods are often successful in treating neck pain and stiffness from a whiplash, shoulder and arm injuries, low back pain, sciatica, hip, knee, ankle and foot pain.
