Active Release (aka Myofascial Release)
Techniques is a system of treatment for soft tissues such as muscle,
tendon, nerve and fascia. Injury to these tissues occurs in many ways;
such as, repetitive strain, acute trauma, and injuries from holding
a position for a long period of time (such as poor posture).
When the body is injured, its response
is to heal the tissue. This is accomplished by initiating an immune
response. Our immune system sends cells to the damaged tissue to clean
and protect against infection and then repair the damage. This is the
stage of healing in which there is inflammation and acute pain.
Fibrous connective tissue, or scar
tissue, is the main tissue involved in repair. When scar tissue develops,
the body tries to lay it down as quickly as possible. It is not concerned
with the direction the fibres are being laid down, rather its job is
to mend the wound as quickly as possible to prevent further injury.
The laying down of scar tissue is a natural and beneficial process and
a necessary step that needs to occur when our body is wounded. The healing
process requires time and rest and should be honoured.
Scar tissue, however, can become a
problem. This type of tissue is depleted in blood flow and resistant
to movement. Over time, it can start to pull on the surrounding tissue
which, in turn, injures them and causes scar tissue to spread out over
a larger area. It is imperative to keep scar tissue mobile and the surrounding
tissue strong to prevent ongoing injury.
Once the tissue is healed enough to
withstand touch, techniques such as active release are extremely beneficial
in keeping it mobile. Active release involves a precise hand placement
over the site of injury. During treatment, the muscle in which the scar
tissue resides is first shortened by moving the limb; this creates slack
in the muscle. A precise hand contact on the scar tissue is made which
takes up any remaining slack and the scar is held against its own resistance.
Then, either active movement performed by the client, or passive movement
performed by the therapist lengthens the muscle in the opposite direction.
This motion effectively sheers the muscle in the opposite direction
of the scar tissue. The result frees up the scar from the surrounding
musculature allowing for more free flowing movement.
This shearing motion is highly effective
against nerve entrapments from tight musculature which cause symptoms
of Sciatica, Carpal tunnel syndrome and Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. Massage
therapists are trained in methods to address scar tissue using a variety
of manual techniques. Active release technique is a method gaining increasing
popularity. Rest assured that massage therapists who choose to specialize
in this therapy participate in an intensive training program and are
tested on the techniques before receiving certification to use them
in practice. Consult your massage therapist if you are experiencing
discomfort due to old scar tissue injuries. Taking an active approach
to your health care may be the key to manifesting a better quality of
life.
Source:
Leahy DC, Michael P. (1998).
Active Release Techniques Soft Tissue Management System For Lower
Extremities (2nd ed.) Active Release Techniques, LLC.
204-38026
Second Ave. Squamish BC 604-892-5557
www.seatoskymassage.ca
