Q: Why do you recommend soft-elastic bouncing in transformation zones of movement after structural soft tissue manipulation?
A: The short answer is to enhance the elastic recoil in the connective tissue. The more detailed answer...A review of current literature proves many injuries are usually NOT in the musculature, nor skeleton. Instead, it is the structure of the connective tissue (ligaments, joint capsules, tendons, etc.) that have been loaded beyond their present capacity. Therefore, a focused rehabilitation and conditioning program could be of great importance for the success of your patients/clients! Most commonly the focus has relied on isolating musculature strength, cardiovascular conditioning, neuromuscular coordination. What we must realize is the now understood (and growing rapidly) characteristic of connective tissue in its impressive ability to ADAPT. When placed under increasing physical strain it changes its architectural properties to meet the demand.
So, how do we create a "silk-like bodysuit", which has strength and the ability to smoothly glide for optimal joint mobility over wider angular ranges? We must create an environment for the adaptation of elastic recoil within the fascial tissues. Think of how a kangaroo can jump - much farther than their leg muscles should allow; or a gazelle, which have amazing leaping and running capabilities though their musculature is not especially powerful. Scientists discovered it is the tendons and the fascia of the legs that are tensioned like elastic bands. Today, high-resolution ultrasound examination has made it possible to discover similar orchestration of loading between muscle and fascia in HUMAN movement - surprisingly it has been found that the fasciae of HUMANS have a kinetic storage capacity similar to that of kangaroos and gazelles. This stored energy is not only used when we jump and run but also in walking! This new discovery had led to an active revision of long-accepted principles in the field of movement science.
The great news - in each FSTT class manual we will describe and practice new movements to enhance the elastic recoil of the areas emphasized in the structural section thus providing a system of care for injured regions.
A final note...the principles of nature do not change, just our understanding. Whether you have been through the GIFT program and/or FSTT program the intent remains the same...learn the principles of nature, as they are YOUR anchors to navigating complexity. Don't look for exacts (like specific muscle anatomy, exact tissue injury, etc.) instead search for patterns as it is a FACT we are only isolated in our mind's THINKING, to the brain we are WHOLE. Don't make something so complicated by trying to think pieces, think patterns and make it customized to YOU. We are not a machine and therefore shouldn't approach the body whether it be manual therapy or training-conditioning, as if we have a manual for its function. Instead follow the principles of nature and embrace the wonderful new discoveries as new potential.
We hope to see you at an upcoming course so we can learn from each other!
Enjoy.
