Advanced Soft Tissue
IASTM ( Instrument Soft Tissue Mobilization)
What is it?
IASTM is a treatment method used to treat soft tissue restrictions and scar tissue which may be affecting normal function and movement. Through the use of specialized tools made of stainless steel Dr Oliver will be able to detect areas that require treatment. The tools allow for better sensitivity and also when applying treatment allow for greater depth to be achieved than is possible with the hands alone.
How does it work?
The tools are designed to increase range of motion or reduce soft tissue restrictions. The underlying adhesions in the muscles or fascia can be detected by gliding the tool along the skin’s surfaces. Adhesions in muscles or fascia can contribute to loss of mobility throughout the body. Without proper mobility the body will have to compensate which can lead to stress and strain in other areas of the body. Once these areas are found Dr Oliver will use the proper treatment to help remove these restrictions and increase the mobility that had been lost.
Many times patients will report increased flexibility and less strain immediately after treatment. However, sometimes a few treatments are necessary to get the desired results.
Myofascial Release Techniques
Myofascial release encompasses multiple techniques which, utilize the doctor’s hands to apply specific forces and motions to muscles and soft tissue. This helps increase mobility and decrease pain. Depending on the problem at hand Dr Oliver may utilize one or more of these techniques to treat specific areas.
This type of manual therapy is often used by chiropractors, massage therapists, and physical therapists to reduce trigger points which have developed in muscles. {A trigger point is an area in a muscle of increased localized tenderness which has the tendency to refer pain to broader areas – sometimes distant from the trigger point itself}. Many times, patients will come in with pain in one area of their body and it’s actually coming from a trigger point in a muscle in another part of their body. This pain can be alleviated by applying the right pressure to these points.
Kinesio Tape
Kineso tape works in several ways depending on how it is applied to the body.
What is it?
Kinesio tape is a special kind of tape made of cotton which is able to stretch up to 140% its original length. The tape is designed to mimic human skin, with roughly the same thickness and elastic properties. It was first created for the treatment of sports injuries and to improve sports performance. Kinesio Tape is often associated with world class athletes such as: Serena Williams, Kerri Walsh, or Lance Armstrong. But the truth is, this tape is useful in treating more than just sports injuries. Dr Oliver uses this tape routinely for treating a wide variety of problems such as: low back strains, neck strains, or even patients with headaches.
How does it work?
Kineso tape works in several ways depending on how it is applied to the body. It can correct alignment issues, support injured muscles, “shut off” tight or spasmed muscles, and can even help with decreasing swelling. The tape sticks to the skin for 4-7 days depending on the conditions and activity of the patient. Also, the tape can stay applied to the body during showers and all activities. It is a great addition to the treatment as it helps speed up recovery times.