Soft Tissue Mobilization

Soft tissue mobilization is a manual therapy technique where I manipulate soft tissue such muscles, ligaments, fascia, tendons, and connective tissue to promote healing and recovery. I begin by using my hands to feel the tissue, identify the pain points, and work from there. I may employ massage techniques including long, gliding strokes, kneading, cross-friction, or focused pressure to relax trigger points, spasms, and tightness, and reduce pain. When necessary, I will use specialized tools to assist in breaking down scar tissue, adhesions, and fascial restrictions (this technique is known as Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization or IASTM).

Myofascial Release

I use my hands to apply gentle, sustained pressure to tight fascia (thin, web-like connective tissue surrounding muscles, organs, and other structures) to release tension, alleviate pain, and improve flexibility of the fascia and the underlying tissue. This helps restore tissue mobility and normal function. Fascia is an important structure throughout our body that is always affected when surgery or trauma to tissue occurs. When mobility of fascia is disrupted, a burning or pulling pain or discomfort may develop. Myofascial release is very beneficial to provide relaxation and stretch to this layer of tissue. I may also use silicone suction cups to provide soft tissue decompression/myofascial cupping to areas of fascial restrictions.

Manual Lymph Drainage Massage

Manual Lymph Drainage Massage is specialized massage designed to encourage lymphatic fluid to move through the lymphatic system’s natural paths to reduce swelling and improve the elimination of toxins. I perform very precise, smooth, gentle massage motions to the affected area. I have trained from the true experts in the field and have taught multiple courses in manual lymph drainage to therapists throughout the country.

Medical Compression Bandaging

I apply a short-stretch bandage (not an Ace bandage which is made differently) to areas affected by lymphedema (e.g., hand, arm or leg) to reduce swelling and related pain and discomfort. These special bandages help to enhance “muscle pumping” with exercise which then improves lymphatic flow. Each patient is taught how to apply these bandages correctly so that they may continue to bandage as needed at home for the best results.

Dry Needling

Dry Needling involves inserting thin needles into trigger points, which are tight knots of muscle fibers that can cause pain and discomfort. I use this technique to cause a muscle reaction — called a twitch reaction — which can benefit you in various ways:

1. Pain Relief: Dry needling can provide immediate relief from pain by releasing muscle tension and promoting relaxation. It can also stimulate the release of endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving chemicals produced by the body.

2. Improved Blood Flow: The insertion of needles into muscles can stimulate blood flow to the area increasing nutrients and oxygen to the muscle which can facilitate healing and recovery.

3. Muscle Relaxation: Dry needling helps to release muscle tension and reduce muscle spasms and cramping by targeting and relaxing the muscles involved. This allows the muscles to move more freely and improve your flexibility and muscle/athletic performance.

4. Targeted Treatment: Dry needling allows the therapist to target specific muscles and trigger points accurately in a manner some other techniques cannot attain.

Because dry needling is such a targeted technique, I use it in combination with other treatment techniques like manual therapy, exercise and stretching to create a comprehensive treatment plan to address your needs.

Kinesio Taping

Kinesio Therapeutic Taping is a treatment that is beneficial in the treatment of soft tissue dysfunction. I apply elastic, cotton-based tape to the skin in specific patterns to assist in relaxing a tight muscle, supporting a weak joint, helping to improve muscle contraction for strengthening, or even assisting in promoting better blood circulation and lymphatic flow to decrease swelling.

Stretching and Exercise

We’ve learned from a young age that stretching and exercise are important for us to remain healthy and mobile, but sometimes we don’t know what exercises and stretching will help us the most. I will show you, and have you perform, targeted exercises and stretches to address your unique pain, weakness or flexibility needs. As you improve, we progress to new stretches and exercises to advance you to, and through, your recovery.

Education

I am a strong believer in giving you the tools and education you need to take care of yourself. I use my knowledge and techniques to help you through the tough part of recovery. As I do that, I develop a custom program of activities, exercises and self-care, and I will walk through that program with you, step by step, so you can get back to your active self.