What is Soft Tissue?
Soft tissue is the tissue that that connects, supports and surrounds other structures and organs in the body. This can include anything from muscles to tendons, ligaments, fascia, nerves, fibrous tissues, blood vessels and synovial membranes. All of these structures work together to help our body function the way it should.
Fascia is the soft tissue component of the connective tissue system; which connects muscles together for structural support. Fascia sits on the superficial part of the body and is responsible for housing nerves, blood supply and lymph fluid to remove toxins. Throughout our everyday lives, our posture or certain overuse or underuse activities may cause certain fascia to become restricted. When fascia is tight or restricted, it may disrupt the flow of lymph or limit the ability of our skin to glide on the fascia, causing tightness and even pain.
What is Soft Tissue Mobilization?
Simply put, soft tissue mobilization is the therapeutic manipulation and deformation of tissue. It can be used to address a number of conditions. This includes tendon impairments, trigger points, surgical incision adhesions and impaired nerve or vascular mobility.
Soft Tissue Mobilization Treatment
Here at Farmingdale Physical Therapy, our therapists are experts at treating soft tissue restrictions you may be experiencing. To apply this technique, a specialist at Farmingdale Physical Therapy will apply deep, consistent pressure with a rhythmic pace. By identifying the area with the most significant tissue restriction, the physical therapist can apply pressure to the localized area. Ultimately, the goal of soft tissue mobilization is to break up myofascial adhesions, such as scar tissue, and inelastic/fibrous muscles. Doing so will restore mobility to the muscles, move tissue fluids, and ease tension.
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Soft tissue mobilization is used to help increase blood flow, maintain soft tissue mobility and affect the orientation of muscle fibers. Soft tissues that become restricted can impair mobility both directly and indirectly. If you are experiencing uncomfortable or painful muscle tightness, or have had surgery that have developed scar adhesions, soft tissue mobilization may be the right choice for you. Our experienced staff can help relieve this pain, positioning you for a more comfortable and pain-free lifestyle.