Introduction to 3-D Soft Tissue Therapy - Part 1

(Technical level: Beginnger-Intermediate)

When I went through massage school a few years ago, I can say that I loved learning about the soft tissues of the body more than anything else, and what got me was that my teachers said "This is just the beginning." Three years later, I look back and I'm still learning about the soft tissues of the body. What's amazing is that we are just starting to tap into the knowledge about and wisdom of the soft tissues of the human body.

As I learned more and more about the soft tissues, I also learned that there were literally hundreds of different methods to facilitate healing of the soft tissue like Swedish Massage, Deep Tissue Massage, Active Release Technique, Graston Technique, Bowen Therapy, Lomi Lomi, etc. The list really does go on and on. The interesting thing is that all of these modalities have a place in soft tissue therapy. However, many people get wrapped up in the TECHNIQUE and forget the PRINCIPLES OF FUNCTION. If we do not anchor ourselves and techniques to the Principles of Function, then we are doing something just to do it. The technique should be applied to the individual if appropriate, not applying the individual to the technique (if that makes any sense).  The interesting thing is that when we start to anchor ourselves to Principles of Function, our "toolbox" is only limited by our imagination (and scope of practice). Let's take a look at the soft tissue of the body, our Principles of Function and then see what we can come up with as far as appropriate techniques.

WHAT IS THE SOFT TISSUE SYSTEM?

The soft tissue system consists of the muscles, fascia, ligaments, tendons, nerves, joint capsules, circulatory and lymphatic structures. Unfortuately, many the soft tissue system has been largely ignored even though it causes more pain and dysfunction than any of the other organ systems.


WHAT IS 3-D SOFT TISSUE THERAPY?

As we move into the world of soft tissue/manual therapy, there are so many wonderful modalities to visit. I have experienced many of them and they all made me "feel better". I have also learned many of the modalities and used them on clients. As I learned the technique, I was focusing on the application of it. I never gave a thought about the why and how. 3-D Soft Tissue Therapy (3DSTT) is based on Principles of Function. They are:

1. Function is 3-D.
2. Function deals with Gravity, Ground Reaction Forces, Mass and momentum.
3. Function is Driven by Authentic Drivers.
4. Function is Dynamic.
5. Function is Variable.
6. Function is Complex.
7. Function is Individualized.
8. Function is Enhanced through Tweakology.
9. Function consists of Global Movements (not isolation).
10. Function is FUN.

As we come to Principles of Function, we see that our understanding of the techniques tends to deepen. We "get" the them quicker and are not tied down to a particular technique for every client or patient.  We also see that our results improve as our principle based toolbox gets fuller.

I realize that I am speaking in somewhat abstract terms and I apologize for this. However, it's a neccessary foundation that must be set before we go onto actual techniques.

To start understanding 3DSTT, we must start with the knowledge of:

1. how soft tissue repairs
2. the difference in the scarring process and the fibrotic process

As we understand the healing process and apply our Principles of Function to the 3DSTT, we are able to create an authentic environment for healing of the tissues.

UNDERSTANDING SOFT TISSUE HEALING

When soft-tissue is damaged, there is a distinct linear healing process. IT SHOULD BE NOTED THAT ANY INJURY WE HAVE HAD IN OUR LIFE IS STILL WITH US ON SOME LEVEL. AS VERTEBRATES, WE ONLY HAVE THE ABILITY TO HEAL, NOT TO REGENERATE EXACT DUPLICATES OF DAMAGED TISSUE.

The healing process has 4 distinct phases.

1. Inflammation Phase
2. Granulation Phase
3. Fibroplastic Phase
4. Remodeling Phase

These phases are have their own characteristcs that will dictate various forms or treatment and inevitably rehabiliation of the soft tissues. When combined with the Principles of Function, the strategies become more powerful and the soft tissue techniques more efficient.

I will go into the different phases as well as their principle based application in tomorrows post. If you have any questions, please feel free to leave them in the comments section.

Happy Monday!

Will