Soft Tissue Techniques

When soft tissues (muscles, tendons, ligaments, and connective tissue) are not at their optimum health, the human body will express increased pain and decreased function. Whether you are a full-time worker, full-time mother, an auto accident victim or an athlete, this will negatively impact a person’s performance and quality of life.

Integrated Chiropractic has incorporated a combination of the most effective soft tissue techniques to maintain and/or regain the health and function of muscles, tendons, ligaments, and connective tissue.

There are many forms of soft-tissue treatments used to treat musculoskeletal conditions such as:

• Sprains
• Strains
• Tendonitis
• Bursitis
• Hypoxia
• Microtrauma tears

These and other musculoskeletal injuries can lead to dense scar tissue in affected areas which can bind up muscle tissues that otherwise need to freely move. If scar tissue continues to bind, muscles become shorter, weaker and nerves can become trapped. This can potentially result in loss of motion, loss of strength, pain and numbness.

Soft tissue techniques date back deep in history and are found across a range of cultures. When it comes to medical care, ancient traditions across Europe and Asia all place major emphasis on such massage. At Integrated Chiropractic, we are fully committed to relieving your pain, rehabilitating your injuries, and enhancing your quality of life.

The following list highlights a few soft tissue techniques:

• Effleurage: the muscle receives light, gentle strokes during this warm-up for deep tissue work.
• Friction: the thumb is utilized in small, circular motions. Tissue is pressed back and forth over the muscle.
• Petrissage: deep tissue massage characterized by use of pressure.
• Tapotement: the sides of hands are used in quick, jabbing, “karate chop” motions.

• Musculoskeletal Conditions

  While recreational massage therapy can provide a soothing way for you to relax and unwind, a visit to the chiropractor could mean the difference between serious health concerns and relief from all symptoms. If you experience any joint pain, pinched nerves, or muscle aches, you should see a doctor right away. Many patients make the mistake of going to a massage parlor instead of a doctor’s office when they’re experiencing muscle or joint pain. If a muscle injury is present, the massage therapist may further complicate damage through vigorous massage. Remember, chiropractors are certified healthcare professionals trained to recognize signs that you may have a serious condition.

  Soft tissue techniques are often used to treat the following musculoskeletal injuries:

• Strained muscles or ligaments
• Sprained muscles and ligaments
• Microtrauma tears
• Hypoxia
• Bursitis
• Tendonitis

• What To Expect During Treatment

  When you first come into the office, we’ll have you fill out some brief paperwork. This paperwork provides the office with a clear picture of you and your condition, so you can be treated as efficiently as possible. Next, you will meet with the doctor and have a consultation about any health concerns you may have. Once the problem has been identified, your doctor will perform a series of specialized tests in order to pinpoint the affected tissues. X-rays may be performed. A full-body nerve scan allows us to observe your nervous system, which falls out of balance when significant injury or spinal dysfunction is present. After a complete exam, you will generally receive your first treatment the same day. The office will provide you with home instructions, such exercises and stretches, and a follow-up appointment.

  Interested in learning about our soft tissue techniques? Call Integrated Chiropractic, (561)826-3808 to book your massage today.