Myofascial Release Technique

1. First follow steps 1-5 as outlined in "Steps in Basic FENIX Therapeutic Pressure Application" in the Basic FENIX Treatment.
   
   
2. When you get to step 6, instead of applying constant, sustained pressure to the TP, you vary the treatment as follows:
   
   

   Rhomboid/mid-trapezius release for mid-back/shoulder pain	Supraspinatus tendon/anterior deltoid m. for shoulder tendonitis

   
   
   • With The trigger pointunder therapeutic compression you slowly stretch the muscle containing the TP.
   • For example, if you are treating the TPs of the infraspinatus or Rhomboid muscle on your left for mid-back/ shoulder pain, take your right hand and grasp your left elbow, then slowly pull your left elbow across your chest, stretching the shoulder muscle under therapy (see picture).
   • Each area of your body can be treated this way by stretching the tissues being treated with compression, causing the therapeutic digit to stroke through the barrier of the involved myofascial tissue. Always use lubricant on bare skin.
   • Your clinician can give you specific instruction on which muscles can be treated this way and how it is to be accomplished. Review your DVD instructions for a visual representation of this technique.
   
   
3. Another form of myofascial release technique is more easily accomplished by slowly introducing motion into the tissue being treated with therapeutic compression, by moving a body part, e.g. the neck, trunk, arm or leg, in a slow back and forth motion. This motion will cause the therapeutic digit to stroke through the barrier of the involved myofascial tissue. Keep your skin in contact with the digit, and move across the muscle tissue under the skin by moving the overlying skin with the digit. With some minor experimentation on your part you may find the most effective way to release your trigger points with this technique.
   
   
4. Or you can accomplish a deep Transverse Friction Massage by slightly oscillating across the digit by gently pushing and/or pulling with your feet or hands against the floor, creating a rocking motion. With this technique, keep your skin in contact with the digit and move across the muscle or tendon by moving the overlying skin. This technique is good for fibrotic changes in muscles and tendons.
   
   
5. Using Lubrication: In the three techniques described above in this Myofascial release section you can use PROSSAGE Heat, either by applying a few drops on the digit or directly on the skin overlying the treatment area. PROSSAGE Heat is an ideal therapeutic product which warms the tissue and allows for a smooth glide of the digit through the involved tissue.
   
   
6. Finish the treatment of The trigger pointby following the instructions in steps 9-12. After treatment with the FENIX, always stretch the muscles (See the Stretching Guide).