For practitioners of massage therapy, sports massage, remedial massage,
and physical therapy, soft tissue release is a powerful tool in treating
chronic pain conditions such as shoulder impingement, tennis elbow, and
iliotibial band friction syndrome. Soft tissue release also aids
post-surgical recovery and is used in the treatment of highly trained
athletes, dancers, and musicians who wish to tackle those small but key
tissue areas needed to maintain and improve their performance.
The soft tissues consist of muscle fibers, myofascia, tendons, and
ligaments. The all-encompassing nature of this connective tissue is
becoming increasingly fascinating to bodywork practitioners of all
kinds, including massage therapists, physical therapists, chiropractors,
osteopaths, orthopedic nurses and doctors, and sports therapists.
Treatment of the soft tissues continues to gain momentum, and there are
many exciting research developments that demonstrate how manipulation of
these tissues can have profound effects on the structure and function of
the musculoskeletal system. Skilled release of the soft tissues reduces
the need for adjustments or joint mobilizations, because appropriate
release improves joint movement. Freeing the joints and enhancing the
health of the soft tissues also facilitates a superior and lasting
response to rehabilitation programs.
The Soft Tissue Release Handbook is aimed at practicing therapists who
wish to address the soft tissues precisely and effectively, whether as
an adjunct to existing bodywork techniques or as a treatment modality in
itself. The skills presented in this book can be immediately applied in
the clinic with existing and new clients. Graphic illustrations of the
key muscles involved in movement, as well as over 200 full-color
photographs of the technique in action, make this an easy-to-use and
practical guide.
