| Releasing the Quadriceps and Pelvis Providing your client with an effective method of continuing the releases that you've accomplished during session is a powerful adjunct to your treatment. One of the best methods is utilization of a Yoga Strap. A Yoga Strap is an eight foot long cotton belt with a buckle that allows the strap to remain fastened around the foot, gives your client the ability to relax the entire musculature of the legs and pelvis for the most effective release possible while targeting the anterior structures of the leg and pelvis for a complete self stretch. Basic application is to have the client arrange the strap so that there is a small loop at the end of the strap, just large enough to fit over the mid-section of the foot, not the ankle. Having them place the strap over the foot encourages traction through the lower leg and, by extension, through the entire leg and pelvis. Have them lie prone on a bed or floor and position the strap on the foot with the loose end over their shoulder. Before having them perform this on themselves, show them how much, or little, force is needed to create an effective self-release. Have them feel as you bend their knee to the first barrier. Show them how much is too much pressure, soften back to the first barrier and hold. I use the analogy of fishing. When you have a fish on your line, you must hold tight enough to engage the fish, but not so strong a pull as to pull the hook from the fish's mouth. Let them feel a release or two. Let them know that they may or may not feel the "release"; they may feel some softening, a prickly feeling under the skin, or nothing at all. But, at all times, they should hold the gentle barrier, never pulling the hook from the fish's mouth. Now allow them to take hold of the strap over their shoulder. Assure that their neck is comfortable, encourage them to remain relaxed. Assist them in keeping the barrier engaged through the strap, holding for 5-8 minutes, or as needed. If they experience back pain during or after the stretch, have them place a small pillow under the belly to posteriorly rotate the pelvis a bit. Rest and repeat on the other side. Experiment a bit with this technique. Performing this release with the thigh flat on the table, floor, or bed tends to concentrate stretch to the lower quadriceps. If you place a folded towel or pillow under the knee, extending the hip a bit, the emphasis will be more proximally toward the pelvis. I find this technique invaluable after a session of quadriceps releases, allowing the pelvis to resume a more neutral position. I also will have the client use the strap during treatment, taking up the slack in the quadriceps and pelvis, while I release the low and mid-back. Encourage them to allow the leg, hip, and body to move/unwind as releases occur. This is a fabulous technique for those clients with chronic knee pain, as well as anterior rotation of the pelvis. Let me know how this works! |
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| Tips and Techniques |
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MyofascialResource.com |
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Walt Fritz, PT Copyright 2009
| Please go to the MFR Newsletter Archives page for past newsletters, Treatment Tips, and Practice Tips |
| Below is a sample of the type of Myofascial Release Treatment Tips that you will receive by subscribing to the free MFRmail Newsletter. Simply type your e-mail address into the box below and hit GO. A full printable PDF version of the self treatment sequence below is available on the MFRmail Newsletter Archives page, along with many others. |
There are many ways that Myofascial Release can be utilized, both in the traditional manner that many of us have been
taught, as well new ways. Take a look at many of the MFR techniques that we have been taught. What is an arm
traction but grasping one end of the arm, pulling until you feel the first barrier, and waiting for the releases to occur?
Many of these techniques are global, while many are regional or much more focused. Many of the cranial releases are
very focused, concentrating on small areas. Not all releases need to include whole body emphasis, though all will
encompass larger areas than just the area of application. If motion or unwinding occurs, we go with it. When properly
taught to your clients, this stretch is a powerfully effective home treatment. A parallel would be using a Nola-Rola to do
self-psoas releases. You are using an object but have a direct connection with your tissues.
Over the past few years much has changed in my professional life. New opportunities have opened and my practice has
thrived. This website has been one of the most positive aspects of those changes.
taught, as well new ways. Take a look at many of the MFR techniques that we have been taught. What is an arm
traction but grasping one end of the arm, pulling until you feel the first barrier, and waiting for the releases to occur?
Many of these techniques are global, while many are regional or much more focused. Many of the cranial releases are
very focused, concentrating on small areas. Not all releases need to include whole body emphasis, though all will
encompass larger areas than just the area of application. If motion or unwinding occurs, we go with it. When properly
taught to your clients, this stretch is a powerfully effective home treatment. A parallel would be using a Nola-Rola to do
self-psoas releases. You are using an object but have a direct connection with your tissues.
Over the past few years much has changed in my professional life. New opportunities have opened and my practice has
thrived. This website has been one of the most positive aspects of those changes.