Why the muscles matter
When an area has been hurting for a while, the muscles around it tighten to protect it. Over time that guarding becomes its own problem: knots form, tissue sticks together, and the muscle pulls the joint back out of position. That is why some people feel great after an adjustment and stiff again a few days later.
Soft tissue therapy breaks that cycle. Dr. Jack works directly on the muscles, tendons and connective tissue so the joint can stay where it belongs.
Methods
- Active Release Technique (ART). Dr. Jack applies pressure to a tight muscle while you move it through its range. It is especially effective for scar tissue and adhesions from overuse and old injuries.
- Trigger point therapy. Trigger points are tight, tender spots that refer pain elsewhere, such as a knot in the shoulder that causes a headache. Sustained pressure releases them.
- Deep tissue trigger point release. Slower, deeper pressure for long-standing tension in the back, hips and shoulders.
- Acupressure release therapy. Targeted pressure on specific points to calm muscle spasm and tension without needles.
- Neuromuscular technique. Systematic work on muscles that have become overactive and painful.
Who it helps
Soft tissue work helps with muscle spasms, stiff necks and shoulders, tension headaches, tight hips and hamstrings, tennis and golfer's elbow, plantar fasciitis, and the nagging tightness that comes with sciatica and low back pain. It is part of most visits, combined with adjustments.
What it feels like
Expect firm, focused pressure. It can be uncomfortable on a tender spot, the "good hurt" most people know from a deep massage, but it should never be more than you can comfortably handle. Tell Dr. Jack and he will adjust the pressure.