Having flexibility in our bodies is a key component of relaxation. The ability to move our joints through their full range of motion is not an easy task.
” The Mattes Method centers on physiological principles of specific muscle lengthening, increased circulation and oxygen to tissues, lengthening of the superficial and deep fascia.
This method shows how to safely lengthen muscles and fascia while simultaneously maintaining a physiologically based agonist-antagonist relationship. ”
Maintaining the agonist-antagonist relationship requires the Therapist to have knowledge of how the muscles work together.
Antagonist muscles must relax to allow the agonist to facilitate movement.
” The Mattes Method optimizes a complete myofascial stretch without activating the myostatic response or stretch reflex also known as muscle contraction.”
‘ Aaron Mattes is advisor/consultant to Olympic athletes, sports teams, and college and professional athletes. He received his Master of Science in Kinesiology and Exercise Science from the University of Illinois.
His lifetime of experience has led him to found the Aaron Mattes Therapy Outpatient Clinic for the practice of Neurological, Orthopedic, and Sports Medicine. He has been featured in “Runner’s World”, “Men’s Health”, “Longevity”, “Women’s Sport and Fitness”, and “American Health”.’ http://www.stretchingusa.com/
There are many techniques used by massage therapist that can help clients benefit from stretch during massage. These techniques if used properly can benefit the client , most often they are not used correctly and can cause injury.
These injuries can range from small micro tears to complete detachment. Good reasons for the therapist to be well educated in the art of stretching their client.
In the past many experts have advocated a prolonged stretch of up-to 60 seconds. Prolonged static stretching decreases the blood flow within the tissue creating localized ischemia or restriction of blood supply and lactic acid build-up.
This can cause irritation and possibly injury to the area. Performing an Active Isolated Stretch of no longer than 1 1/2-2 seconds allows the target muscle to lengthen without triggering a protective reflex.
Active Isolated Stretch is affective in alleviating pain associated with :
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Postural problems
Low back pain
Neck and shoulder pain
Foot and heal pain
Chronic and Acute muscle injury
Using the Mattes Method for your client and for yourself can help bring you to a place of flexibility and relaxation while giving you a tool that is both gentle and effective.
As always, ‘ Choose each day to be blissful and complete, a whole person well cared for by you. ‘
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