By referring to the anatomy and physiology of muscles, one easily appreciates the basis of microStretching®. Myofibrils are constituted of myofilaments of actin and myosin proteins. These are well controlled, protected and maintained in a system of reflexes with stretch/tension sensors such as muscle spindles and tendon tension receptors (Golgi Tendon Organ). Any overstretch of muscles is reflexly protected as the muscle goes into spasm. If the stretch is beyond physiologic limits and there is damage of the myofilaments, the spasm continues and there is a degree of formation of fibrous tissue in the repair mechanism. Restoration of muscle function has to be gradual and within limits of function and stretch of the muscle fibers. If this is not carefully controlled, you end up causing more stretch damage and more fibrous tissue is formed with greater limitation to movement. The technique of microStretching® therefore is one that takes into account the micro-anatomy of muscle fibers, their physiologic functions and their limits of activity. The technique also takes onto account the degree of fibrous tissue already formed and stretch is controlled to also allow stretch of fibrous and ligamentous tissues to their functional limits in coordination with other muscles acting in synergy and involving related joints.
Also, whenever there is inaction of muscle, fibrous tissue around joints where the muscle acts begins to shrink, causing “freezing” of the joint with limitation of movement within that joint. In microStretching®, this is taken into consideration so that the capsular fibers are not overstretched and damaged.
The technique also takes into account circulation of blood in the region affected. As blood supply to the area is improved, the healing process is facilitated and function is more readily restored.
More to follow later......
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