WHAT IS SOFT TISSUE RELEASE?
Soft tissue manipulation or mobilization is an umbrella term for different kinds of manual (i.e. hands-on) techniques. What all these techniques have in common is that a mechanical force, or pressure, is applied to soft tissue. Soft tissue includes muscles, ligaments, tendon and fascia. Soft tissue release is a valuable technique for addressing a wide range of musculoskeletal problems by targeting muscle tightness, improving flexibility, and reducing pain. 
What Can It Help?
  • Muscle, Ligament and tendon injuries
  • Back and neck pain
  • Joint pain and stiffness
  • Postural problems
  • Chronic pain conditions and fibromyalgia
  • Sport injuries
  • Scar tissue restrictions
What Are The Benefits?
  • Pain and swelling management
  • Improve range or motion
  • Enhance muscle function
  • Accelerated healing process
  • Break down adhesive tissue
  • Injury prevention
  • Complementary therapy 
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Soft tissue mobilization is used by physiotherapists to treat various musculoskeletal conditions. Almost every treatment will include one or more of these techniques.
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  • Myofascial release – Fascia is bands of connective tissue that covers and support all structures in the body including bones, nerves, muscles, tendons and organs. Fascia can become tight and restricted which can lead to pain and dysfunction. Myofascial release includes applying pressure and holding this pressure to the area to stretch the fascia and release any tension. At Keet Inc we also offer specialised myofascial activation pattern (MAP) sessions/classes – which is the fascia is targeted first by releasing then strengthen into the fascia movements pattern to enhance performance.
  • Trigger Point release – Trigger points are localized areas of thigh and irritable muscles caused by small “knots” in muscle fibres which are not being delivered oxygen and nutrients. They present as lumps or twitches and can cause pain at the point or in the surrounding area. During trigger point release the tender points are located and deep strokes are applied and hold for a few seconds. The technique relieves local and referral pain, muscle spasm and improve range of motion.
  • Deep transverse friction – During this technique deep forces are applied at a right angle to the injured tissue area. The aim is to realign the fibres in an organised way to improve their functional ability and strength.
  • Massage – Massage is a technique used to stimulate soft tissue in order to relieve pain, improve circulation and relax you. 

Your physiotherapist might even use a combination of soft tissue techniques during your session, depending on your diagnosis and symptoms, stage of healing and tolerance.