Pain is commonly a symptom of an issue within your body, though sometimes not where you think!
For example – if muscle “X” stops working properly and efficiently – muscle “Y” compensates to help produce the same movement pattern. Muscle “X” could have been injured, overused, nutritionally deficient, or a host of other possibilities thus causing the limited capabilities. Muscle “Y” will then carry the load and work overtime, until it can no longer do the work of both muscles. At this point, significant compensation will be occurring, and pain will occur. If left untreated – irregular joint wear patterns can exist and long term joint damage can begin to set in.
How can Muscle Activation Techniques (MAT) Help?
Muscle Activation Techniques is designed to deal with these muscular imbalances efficiently and effectively within the body. When there is an imbalance like the example above, “little by little, strong muscles get stronger and weak muscles get weaker.” These imbalances lead to issues in posture, lack of strength, muscle tightness, and limited ranges of motion. Ultimately, pain, injury, and dysfunctional mind/body connections occur.
The Muscle Activation Techniques (MAT) process stimulates muscle “X”, and the nerves at weak points in the body, so they re-engage appropriately. The Muscle Activation Techniques specialist carefully applies pressure with fingers at very specific locations on the body. (No electrodes or machines are used to activate the mind/body proprioception).
MAT is unique and has the ability to work directly on the weak muscle(s) and decrease one’s overall pain and dysfunction.
When muscles are properly balanced, they fire reliably. Joints become more stable and injuries are prevented. Your exercise and life can be pain-free. Contact us at Fitness Matters today to learn more about Muscle Activation Techniques today!
What to expect on your first visit
Typically, you will be able to see and feel an increased range of motion and decreased pain/tightness even with just one session. The first MAT session always includes a conversation about your history including orthopedic issues, a muscular assessment, and the application of Muscle Activation Techniques. Pain is not common during the treatment process. MAT has a process of checks and balances to ensure the appropriate treatment is occuring for your needs.
Because Muscle Activation Techniques do not force change on the body – several sessions are recommended to solve the range of motion limitations and to eliminate tightness by increasing individual muscles’ ability to contract and to stabilize joints. Your MAT therapist will provide ‘homework’ to help reinforce the treatments and recover more quickly. For more details, contact Fitness Matters at Columbus, Worthington, Grandview, and Westerville, OH.