Massage can be performed in many ways to address a broad array of musculoskeletal issues. Ashburn Chiropractic & Rehab Center is a top provider of deep tissue manipulation for relief of pain and stiffness, offering a range of techniques for optimal results.

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How do massage and tissue manipulation work to relieve pain?

Tissue manipulation with massage and other techniques helps to relieve pain, stiffness, and other symptoms by releasing tension that causes muscles to over-contract, which places additional strains on ligaments and tendons. Plus, it stimulates circulation to the area to promote better healing and to release built-up toxins that can exacerbate symptoms.

What are trigger points?

Trigger points are areas where the muscle fibers have become irritated and stiff, resulting in lumps or “knots” that can often be felt under the skin. Trigger points cause local tenderness as well as diffuse and radiating pain and numbness, and they typically form as a result of overuse or repetitive use of muscle. Trigger point therapy uses special deep-tissue massage techniques to penetrate these areas of stiff, contracted tissue to gently “break” them up to relieve tension and pain.

What are active release techniques?

Also called ART, the active release technique uses tissue manipulation to relieve deep pain and promote better range of motion by relieving tension and contracture. ART focuses on specific movements to address stiffness, inflammation, and irritation in muscles, ligaments and tendons. Treatment begins with a hands-on evaluation to determine where and how to apply the technique, which includes more than 500 specific movements that can be used singly or in combination to achieve the best result.

How does Kinesio taping work?

Kinesiology is the study of human motion and movement, as well as the muscles, tendons, ligaments and other structures involved in the movement. Kinesio taping uses a special type of elastic taping to support muscles and other tissues during healing and recovery, providing flexible support that doesn’t interfere with normal motion, so the joints and other tissues don’t become stiff.

What is the Graston technique?

The Graston technique uses special instruments to manipulate deeper tissues, breaking up adhesions and trigger points while promoting healing and improving range of motion. The Graston technique can be used alone, or it can be used in concert with other treatment approaches, including trigger point massage, physical therapy, and chiropractic adjustments.