Myofascial Release provides comprehensive training for hands-on
therapists of all disciplines and at all levels to expand their
practice. From technique descriptions and their applications to client
interactions and the preservation of practitioner strength and
functionality, this guide teaches therapists every crucial aspect of
employing myofascial release to its fullest benefit.
This scientifically grounded whole-body approach presents an overview of
the entire fascial matrix, the three-dimensional web of tissue that
supports, encompasses, and protects every other structure in the body.
The explanation of the anatomy and function of the connective tissue
system gives practitioners the solid background needed for working most
effectively with soft tissue to treat muscle injury, immobility, and
pain. The book also outlines how myofascial release relates to other
massage modalities in the Hands on Guides for Therapists series,
ensuring therapists incorporate all of their skills to the greatest
effect for their clients.
Descriptions of over 60 myofascial techniques contain details on the
timing, direction, and hold of each stretch as well as numerous
photographs that illustrate the body and hand positions of each
technique. Nuanced explanations of the unique feel of soft tissue,
including the component of position of ease felt in the fascial drag,
enhance the therapist's palpation skills. The therapist learns how to
apply the best approach--cross-hand releases, longitudinal plane
releases, compression releases, and transverse plane releases--on
specific injuries or issues and how to combine techniques to maximize
their effectiveness. The text also contains home programs that clients
can use themselves between treatment sessions.
Myofascial Release provides an entire therapeutic approach as opposed
to just the hands-on application that most books offer. Special features
make this resource more effective and efficient for readers:
- Full-color photos present a strong visual guide to employing each
technique safely.
- The photo index reference tool quickly points readers to the desired
technique.
- Therapist tips provide practical comments on applying the techniques.
- Client talk boxes share the author's experiences and insights on
common situations.
- Quick Questions at the end of each chapter test readers' knowledge of
material.
Finally, the text offers insight on interacting with clients and
ensuring their entire therapeutic experience is fulfilling. It covers
the client consultation process, checking for contraindications and
performing the visual assessment, how the client may respond to the
treatment, and what the practitioner and client might feel and see
during the process. Readers will come away from Myofascial Release
with a holistic understanding of the approach and how to apply the
principles to their practice.
Myofascial Release is part of the Hands-On Guides for Therapists
series, which features specific tools for assessment and treatment that
fall well within the realm of massage therapists but may be useful for
other body workers, such as osteopaths and fitness instructors. The
guides include full-color instructional photographs, Tips sections that
aid in adjusting massage techniques, Client Talk boxes thatt present
ideas for creatively applying techniques for various types of clients,
and questions for testing knowledge and skill.
