Soft tissue release (STR) techniques are manual therapy methods used primarily by physical therapists, massage therapists, and other healthcare professionals to treat pain, improve mobility, and aid in recovery from injuries. These techniques focus on the muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia, and nerves.
Here are some of the common soft tissue release techniques:
Myofascial Release
The therapist applies gentle, sustained pressure into the myofascial connective tissue restrictions to eliminate pain and restore motion. Additionally, the therapist stretches and massages the fascia to reduce tension.
Trigger Point Therapy
The therapist targets trigger points—tight knots in the muscles that cause pain over a large area. By applying pressure to these points, the therapist alleviates muscle spasms and discomfort.
Active Release Techniques (ART):
ART treats problems with muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia, and nerves through a movement-based massage technique. The therapist applies pressure while the patient actively moves the muscle through a range of motion.
Deep Tissue Massage
The therapist relieves tension in the deeper layers of tissue in the body. Moreover, this method effectively releases chronic stress areas due to misalignment, repetitive motions, and past injuries.
Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM)
Therapists use tools to mobilize soft tissues, often breaking down scar tissue and fascial restrictions following an injury.
Strain-Counterstrain
The therapist identifies tender points and positions the patient to minimize tenderness. Then, holding the patient in this comfortable position for a brief period allows the body to reset its muscles to a normal tension level.
Overall, these techniques vary in intensity and can be combined depending on the patient’s specific needs. Therapists often integrate them into a broader therapeutic plan to enhance joint movement, decrease pain, and improve overall function.
