Move Better, Feel Better: A Movement-Based Approach to Soft Tissue Mobilization for the Lower Body: Summary 23
Body Region Location
Treatment Technique
Quadriceps
Muscle belly, around the patella
Static with(out) movement: pin and stretch into knee flexion (over inferior insertion of quads) TDM with(out) patient movement: anchor proximally or distally and work away from the anchor. Move distally when stretching into flexion/proximally when contracting into extension Static with(out) movement: pin & stretch into dorsiflexion TDM anchor proximally or distally and work away from the anchor. Move distally when stimulating dorsiflexion/ proximally when stimulating plantarflexion; gliding over first ray/planta fascia
Calf and Foot
Medial/lateral gastroc, Achilles, plantar facia
KINESIOLOGY TAPING:
Proposed Benefits • Reduced pain via inhibiting/decompressing tissues or facilitating/supporting tissues • Improve lymphatic drainage via opening of microvalves • Increase tissue glide • Improve ROM • CNS change: KT applied on the skin creates mechanical stimulus and activates different CNS pathways Application • Several different brands in variety of sizes (2 inch most common) • Apply on dry, clean skin • Remove body hair if necessary • Measure and cut tape appropriately (with rounded corners): ○ I, V, or Y ○ H-tape: two straps parallel (25-50% stretch); one cross strap (25-50% stretch) ○ Starburst-trigger points: 3-4 straps at 25-50% stretch ○ Fan cut: for edema/lymphatic drainage: ■ Typically anchoring proximally and fanning out distally • Rub the tape to promote adhesion after applied • Stretch changes based on target tissue:
Pros
Cons
• Some evidence proves theories • Provides an
• Inconsistent evidence to support • Can be expensive when used for prolonged time • Can irritate skin or cause allergic reactions
optional additional treatment
• Application to multiple populations • Decrease in • Patient can perform themselves • Water proof
pain encourages movement
Research • Some support for pain relief and improved gait following KT in older adults with knee OA • Improved quad strength with application of KT • Reduced subcutaneous intertissue movement and percutaneous translation in superficial thoracolumbar fascia during flexion • Reduced lymphedema after breast cancer
○ Epidermis: 0-5% stretch ○ Dermis: 5-10% stretch
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