Productive & Therapeutic Massage

02/26/2025

Good read

Tensor Fasciae Latae and Gluteus Maximus Muscles: Do They Contribute to Hip Abduction?

Analysis by Physio Meets Science

“👉 The classic hip abductors include the gluteus medius (Gmed) and minimus (Gmin) muscles. They are innervated by the superior gluteal nerve (SGN). These muscle groups are highly important to function of the hip joint and are relevant for a stable stance and locomotion (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19136181/, .hhttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30182152/ hhttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21212373/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21212373/, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16255022/).

👉 Thus, good abductor strength is essential for locomotion without walking aids (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15001980/). Furthermore, abductor function is crucial for more demanding movements such as fast walking, walking uphill, running, squatting, and climbing stairs (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12127184/).

👉 The tensor fasciae latae (TFL) and the gluteus maximus (Gmax), innervated by the superior and inferior gluteal nerves (SGN/IGN), respectively, are located in immediate anatomical proximity. They are discussed to partially compensate for the function of the classic hip abductors. Nevertheless, the main function of the Gmax is extension and external rotation of the hip and the main function of the TFL is flexion of the hip and stretching of the fascia latae with stabilizing effect on the knee (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22109658/).

📘 In a brand-new study, Hoch and colleagues (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39733244/) intend to investigate the amount of abduction force generated by the TFL, the gluteus medius and minimus, and the Gmax. This knowledge may help to understand the compensatory mechanisms that occur when the hip abductors are insufficient. Specific training of these potentially compensating muscle groups can, therefore, be a decisive component in the treatment of patients with hip abductor insufficiency, for example, in the treatment and rehabilitation of patients with neurological diseases, regarding preparation (prehab) for patients undergoing hip surgery or in the case of already established irreversible weakness.

👫 Participants:

➡️ Ten healthy adults (5 males, 5 females) aged 22–29 years participated.

➡️ Exclusion criteria were a history of the lower extremity, hip, or lower back pain, resp. surgery, neuromuscular disorders and pregnancy.

💡 Experimental Setup:

➡️ Sequential nerve blocks were applied to weaken the TFL, Gmed/min, and Gmax muscles selectively.

➡️ Abduction forces were measured in the lateral decubitus position under three hip positions: 30° flexion, neutral, and 30° extension.

🦵 Muscle Weakness Induction:

➡️ Nerve blocks were confirmed via electromyography to ensure selective muscle paralysis.

📊 Data Collection:

➡️ Maximum voluntary isometric contractions (MVICs) were tested using a dynamometer.
➡️ Statistical significance was determined using one-way repeated measures ANOVA.

📈 Results:

✅ General Observations:

▶︎ Hip abduction force was highest when all muscles were intact and significantly reduced following muscle-specific nerve blocks.

✅ Tensor Fasciae Latae (TFL):

▶︎ TFL contributed to abduction force primarily in 30° flexion, reducing it by 15% after paralysis.
▶︎ Its role in neutral and extended positions was negligible (-6,2 -12%).

✅ Gluteus Medius and Minimus (Gmed/min):

▶︎ Gmed/min were the primary contributors to abduction, accounting for over 60% (61,5%-63,3%) of force across all positions.

▶︎ Paralysis resulted in a two-thirds reduction in abduction force, rendering some participants unable to complete tasks in certain positions.

✅ Gluteus Maximus (Gmax):

▶︎ Gmax contributed significantly to abduction, with force reductions ranging from 43% to 56% across positions after paralysis.

▶︎ It was especially relevant during hip flexion.

🔑 Conclusion

✅ TFL: TFL has a minor role in hip abduction, mainly during flexion. Its primary function remains hip flexion and stabilization.

✅ Gmed/min: These muscles are the dominant abductors and crucial for hip stability and locomotion.

✅ Gmax: Previously underestimated, Gmax emerged as a significant contributor to abduction, particularly in flexed positions. Strengthening Gmax may help compensate for hip abductor insufficiency.

⭕ Limitations:

▶︎ The study measured abduction in specific, static positions, limiting real-life applicability.

▶︎ Compensatory mechanisms for chronic muscle weakness were not evaluated due to the acute nature of nerve blocks.

▶︎ No differentiation between different parts of the specific muscles.”

- Physio Meets Science

📸 Illustration: https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-642-00897-9_2

http://www.secretlifeoffascia.com

01/26/2025

Therapeutic Massage for Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS):
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For individuals managing Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), therapeutic massage can be a valuable adjunct to their wellness regimen.
Here’s how evidence-based modalities may support symptom management:

🔬 **Stress Reduction & Nervous System Regulation**
MCAS symptoms are often exacerbated by stress. Massage therapy has been shown to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing cortisol levels and promoting a state of relaxation, which may help mitigate stress-induced flare-ups.

🔬 **Enhanced Circulation & Lymphatic Drainage**
Gentle massage techniques can improve blood flow and lymphatic circulation, supporting the body’s ability to reduce inflammation and remove metabolic waste. This may be particularly beneficial for those experiencing edema or chronic inflammation.

🔬 **Myofascial Release & Pain Management**
Many MCAS patients report musculoskeletal pain and tension. Various modalities can address fascial restrictions and muscle tightness without overstimulating mast cells, offering relief in a controlled manner.

🔬 **Customized, Trigger-Aware Approach**
Sessions are tailored to avoid common MCAS triggers, such as excessive pressure, heat/cold sensations, or highly scented products. Vegan oils and a focus on gentle, non-invasive techniques ensure a safe and therapeutic experience.

🔬 **Holistic Support for Chronic Conditions**
By addressing both physical and emotional stressors, therapeutic massage can contribute to improved quality of life, helping patients feel more balanced and resilient in managing their condition.

If you’re exploring therapeutic massage as part of your MCAS management plan, reach out for a consultation to see if we can create a session that aligns with your unique needs and sensitivities. 🖤

01/05/2025

tool: How lesions to peripheral nerves or spinal nerve roots present with sensory and/or motor deficits in the lower limb

🎊🌲Between the years, we traditionally announce our "Best-of series" of the most influential posts of 2024 on FB.

📣 today 🥇 4

tool: How lesions to peripheral nerves or spinal nerve roots present with sensory and/or motor deficits in the lower limb 💡

📘 Lyon, S. (2022). Pictorial review of lesion localization for patients with stroke, upper limb and lower limb pathology. Neurology Education, 1(1), e200012. https://doi.org/10.1212/NE9.0000000000200012

📌 References

1. Desai SS, Cohen-Levy WB. Anatomy, bony pelvis and lower limb, tibial nerve [updated 2021 Aug 11]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. StatPearls Publishing, 2022. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537028/.

2. Lung K, Lui F. Anatomy, abdomen and pelvis, superior gluteal nerve [updated 2021 Aug 11]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. StatPearls Publishing, 2022. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK535408/.

01/04/2025

✋🏼 🧼 🤚🏼 🫧 😷
Don’t forget norovirus is still around as well as these respiratory viruses.

I appreciate you all beyond measure for always considering my health and the dangers of me being a carrier.

Reminder: There is no charge to cancel same day regarding any illness (even if you aren’t ill but a family member in your home is) or extreme weather events.

12/30/2024

✨ As 2024 Draws to a Close ✨

I want to take a moment to thank each and every one of my clients for another incredible year of support.

From booking sessions and trusting me with your wellness to sharing your stories, your laughs, and even your memes (you know who you are🖤)

✨your connection means the world to me✨

You’ve spoken my name and my business into existence to new clients in person and on social media, you’ve taken the time to write reviews, joined me for lunch dates, shared family, holiday, and travel pics, and made this work feel more like a partnership than just a service.

Thank you for trusting me with your pain management and for listening to my advice and my life stories, and for allowing me to share in yours. It’s truly an honor.
✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨

Here’s to entering 2025 together—healthier, happier, and more connected than ever. 🖤
#2025

With gratitude,
Alicia Arocho LMT

12/24/2024

12/21/2024

💛💙💚🎀🧡🤎🤍🩵🖤
♥️Sesame Street ♥️
🖤🤍🩵🎀🤎💚💙🧡💛

Growing up, Sesame Street wasn’t just a show—it was a safe space. It gave me comfort, connection, and life lessons when I needed them most. My favorite character was Snuffleupagus, who at first was seen only by Big Bird and thought to be imaginary. This resonated with me deeply. His heavy, slow voice, his misunderstood nature, and the judgment of his appearance felt symbolic of depression and the pain of not being believed or seen—something I understood all too well as a child.

Later, when Snuffleupagus was revealed to all the characters, it represented hope. The change came after feedback that his invisibility could unintentionally mirror the experiences of children who aren’t believed when they speak up about abuse. Seeing him acknowledged and accepted by everyone on Sesame Street brought a sense of justice, understanding, and healing.

For me, Snuffy was more than a character—he was a refuge, a reflection of struggles I couldn’t always articulate, and a reminder that being different didn’t mean being unworthy of love and understanding.

Now, as I reflect on Sesame Street possibly losing its home on HBO, I feel like we’re losing a piece of our collective childhood. This show didn’t just entertain us; it taught us empathy, inclusion, and resilience. It’s heartbreaking to think future generations might miss out on these lessons from the street where kindness and curiosity always came first.

Thank you, Sesame Street, for everything. And to Snuffy, my childhood safe space, thank you for reminding me that being seen and heard matters. Always.

12/17/2024

🤔

Scientists say Alzheimer’s might not be a brain disease after all:

The common theory that Alzheimer's disease is caused by the buildup of beta-amyloid plaques in the brain is now being challenged by a new theory. Scientists say Alzheimer's may be an autoimmune disease.

This theory is based on 30 years of research. It suggests that beta-amyloid, rather than being an abnormal protein, is actually a component of the brain's immune system.

Its role is to protect the brain from injury and infection, but due to the similarity between the fat molecules in bacterial membranes and brain cell membranes, beta-amyloid mistakenly attacks the brain cells it's meant to defend. This leads to a chronic, progressive loss of brain function, ultimately resulting in dementia.

This autoimmune misfire redefines Alzheimer’s as a disorder of the immune system. The autoimmune theory opens up new avenues for treatment by focusing on immune-regulating pathways in the brain, rather than solely targeting beta-amyloid. It offers a promising new direction for research and treatment, potentially leading to more effective therapies for Alzheimer's disease.

Autoimmune diseases occur when your immune system mistakenly attacks your body's own tissues, leading to inflammation and damage. There are over 80 recognized types, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and multiple sclerosis. Common symptoms include fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes, and fever. While the exact causes are unclear, factors like genetics, infections, and environmental exposures may contribute.

12/11/2024

Is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Real? Let’s Talk About It

As a massage therapist with over 14 years of experience, I’ve worked with a few clients who deal with Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS). But there’s often confusion about this condition:
Is it real? And what can be done about it?

TOS happens when nerves, veins, or arteries in the area between your collarbone and first rib get compressed. This can cause pain, numbness, or weakness in your neck, shoulders, or arms.

Some people also talk about Thoracic Nerve Outlet Syndrome, but this term isn’t as widely recognized, which adds to the confusion.

The truth? Medical research supports that TOS is real, but diagnosing it can be tricky because it shares symptoms with other conditions like carpal tunnel or pinched nerves.

The good news is that many people find relief through treatments like physical therapy, massage, and sometimes surgery. I’ve seen how focused bodywork can reduce pain and help people move more freely—even with such a complex condition.

If you’ve ever struggled with symptoms like these, don’t ignore them. Working with the right professional can make a big difference.

Have you heard of TOS before? What are your thoughts or experiences?

12/10/2024

✨✨MIGRAINES - HEADACHES - CHRONIC✨✨

Many neurologists and neurosurgeons recognize the potential benefits of incorporating therapeutic massage into treatment plans for migraine sufferers!

For instance, PANDA Neurology & Atlanta Headache Specialists in offer expert massage therapy as part of a comprehensive approach to managing chronic head pain. 

Clinical research supports this integration.

A randomized controlled trial found that participants receiving massage therapy experienced a significant reduction in migraine frequency.  Another study focusing on myofascial trigger point massage for tension-type headaches reported decreased headache frequency and intensity among participants. 

These findings suggest that therapeutic massage can be a valuable component of migraine management, offering relief and enhancing patients’ quality of life!

If you have questions about your chronic headaches; migraines, feel free to DM me to discuss therapeutic treatment!

12/06/2024

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✨ Thank You from the Bottom of My Heart! ✨

I am beyond grateful and honored to share that Productive & Therapeutic Massage has been awarded Best of Georgia once again! 🏆

This recognition wouldn’t have been possible without YOU—my incredible clients, friends, and supporters. Your trust in me, your votes, and your continued encouragement have made this journey truly fulfilling.

Over the past 13 years of operating my business, I’ve been blessed to do what I love: helping people feel their best and rehabilitate through therapeutic massage and bodywork. Your unwavering support inspires me every single day to keep growing, learning, and serving.

This award is a reflection of all the amazing connections we’ve built together. Thank you for believing in me, supporting me, and for making my dream a reality!
Here’s to many more years of healing and wellness together!