Soft Tissue Manipulation
Cupping: A form of myofascial release where suction cups are placed on the skin to create a stretch of the fascial layers in order to increase pliability of muscle and fascial tissue, release nerve entrapment, remove metabolic waste products/toxins, increase circulation, and reduce pain.
Instrument assisted soft tissue manipulation: A form of myofascial release involving a metal instrument to compress and splay the fascia and underlying muscle fibers in order to break up scar tissue, improve circulation, and accelerate healing.
Body tempering: Utilizes a heavy weighted cylinder rolled over the body to stretch and relax muscles, improve flexibility, improve tendon integrity, reduce pain, and prevent injury. Body tempering is used frequently by athletes with large muscle bulk who do not respond easily to traditional myofascial techniques. Body tempering, however, can also work well with the non-athletic population.
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