Hamstring shortness is a frequent musculoskeletal issue, particularly among young adults. While several manual therapy options exist, therapists often debate which technique offers the best results. A study from Turkey compared two widely used methods—Muscle Energy Technique (MET) and Percussive Therapy (PT)—to determine their immediate effects on flexibility and strength. Study Snapshot Participants: 30 college
In early infancy, the brain is highly adaptable—making it responsive to external stimuli like touch. A study from Spainexplored whether a brain imaging tool called functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) could measure how babies’ brains respond to two common tactile therapies: massage and Reflex Locomotion Therapy (RLT). What Was Done Eleven-week-old babies received either a massage
Deep tissue massage (DTM) is often used by therapists working with athletes to reduce muscle tension, improve flexibility, and support recovery. But how effective is it across different types of sports? A recent study from Macedonia explored this question by looking at how DTM affects athletes involved in strength, endurance, team, and individual sports. What
Understanding the Problem Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a widespread condition causing pain, reduced mobility, and stiffness. Patients frequently report stiff or tight muscles around the joint, prompting the use of manual therapies like massage or myofascial release. However, it’s unclear whether this stiffness is objectively measurable or merely a subjective perception. Study Design and InnovationAn
In recent years, the thoracolumbar fascia (TLF) has become an increasingly important focus in understanding and treating low back pain. Long recognized for its role in trunk stability, new research suggests that the TLF may also play a significant role in the development, persistence, and perception of back pain. For therapists, this opens up new
Introduction A single-case study from Austria explored how training, psychological stress, and autonomic nervous system (ANS) regulation affect the thoracolumbar fascia (TLF) in a 50-year-old experienced sport climber over a 30-day training cycle. The TLF plays a vital role in spinal stability and has been linked to low back pain through alterations in its sliding
Physiotherapists have developed various techniques to address fascial dysfunction, including Myofascial Induction Therapy (MIT). This manual therapy approach uses slow, sustained pressure to release restrictions in both superficial and deep fascial layers. However, little research has evaluated how such techniques affect fascial tissues immediately, especially using objective imaging methods like ultrasound. A study from Colombia
Introduction Neck pain is a very common problem, especially among healthcare workers who often perform repetitive tasks, maintain prolonged postures, or experience high levels of stress. These occupational demands contribute to the development of muscle tension, restricted mobility, and chronic pain. Finding effective, quick-acting treatments is important to help this population maintain their health and
Understanding the Challenge Chronic low back pain (lasting more than three months) affects up to 15 percent of adults and is a major contributor to lost productivity, reduced quality of life, and increased healthcare costs. Beyond the physical discomfort, long-term back pain often leads to emotional and psychological strain, including anxiety and depression. Despite various
Fascia plays a central role in the human body’s structural integrity, neuromuscular coordination, and pain regulation. As an interconnected web of connective tissue, it transmits mechanical forces, provides rich sensory feedback, and contributes to proprioception. Recent research has shown that changes in fascial stiffness or mobility can disrupt these functions, potentially leading to chronic pain