In most cases, your treatment will be a comprehensive program consisting of exercise and flexibility programs, instruction in movement awareness and body mechanics, mobilization, and muscle energy techniques, and modalities such as therapeutic ultrasound, electric muscle stimulation, and heat or ice packs. The primary techniques performed by our therapists for the mobilization of the soft tissue is called "myofascial release", which focuses on restrictions in a tissue called fascia. Fascia is a tough connective tissue which spreads throughout the body in a three dimensional wed from head to foot without interruption. The fascia surrounds every muscle, bone, nerve, blood vessel and organ of the body, down to the cellular level. Fascia supports and stabilizes, involving all aspects of motion, enhancing posture and absorbing shock. Trauma, inflammation, or poor posture can create restrictions or binding down of the fascia, resulting in abnormal pressure on nerves, muscles, bones, or organs. This can create pain or malfunction throughout the body, sometimes with seemingly unrelated symptoms. Standard tests such as x-rays, CAT scans and MRIs do not show fascial restrictions. Myofascial Release is a whole body, hands on approach to the evaluation and treatment of the human structure. The therapist will evaluate the fascial system through visual analysis, observing posture, movement and symmetry. They will also palpate tissue texture and fascial layers. When fascial restriction is found, gentle pressure is applied into the direction of the restriction. These barriers are too strong to be forced, but waiting with gentle pressure and following the motion will encourage layer by layer to release. Due to continuous nature of the fascia from the affected structure to neighboring structures, treatment may not be confined to the area that you perceive to be the source of your pain. For example, treatment of an upper extremity quite often involves mobilization of the neck or chest wall fascia, and treatment of lower extremities may require treatment of the pelvis. Staff is always on hand to offer the patient the highest service. Hopp Therapy prides itself on friendly customer service and strong ethical decision making. Please come and join us today!
