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Treating the legs - self myofascial release tools

Treating the legs with self myofascial release (SMR) tools - a myotherapist's perspective

Self-myofascial release (SMR) has grown hugely in popularity and partly due to social media. Just as there are many forms of myofascial release (MFR), there is a huge variety of myofascial release tools on the market. As with most tools, each tool has a specific purpose by design. Equally, it is possible to use particular tools in different ways to achieve different intended outcomes. Professionals using soft-tissue therapy techniques, including (MFR) have historically used specific parts of the body to perform techniques on patients/clients. The development of many SMR tools came about by professionals looking to reduce loads and wear and tear on their bodies. However, the market for such tools within the professional therapist field is relatively small compared to the entire population. Hence, it is essential to understand the origins of such tools and the knowledge base behind their use and application. As with any form of soft-tissue therapy, there are occasions where it may not be safe (contraindicated) to use a particular treatment method at all. Equally, it may not be safe to use some techniques on certain parts of the body. Unfortunately, social media is full of people using various SMR tools and techniques with a distinct lack of anatomy knowledge or even a basic understanding of such methods' principles. The following article discusses specific MFR tools and techniques for treating the legs, essentially different tools for different jobs. 

Article written by Terry Davis MChiro, BSc (Hons), Adv. Dip. Rem. Massag.,  Cert. WHS.

As of December 31st 2020, the author chose to leave the Chiropractic profession and pursue studies within the Physiotherapy field. He no longer works as a McTimoney Chiropractor and works as a Myotherapist in Morningside, Brisbane. The author possesses an unusual background for somebody who trained as a Chiropractor (McTimoney). His education, training, and practical experience span over two decades and relate to health's physical and mental aspects. He has also needed to push his own body and mind to the limits of physical and psychological endurance as part of his time serving in Britain's elite military forces. His education includes a bachelor of science degree in Business Management, with a specialisation in psychology and mental health in the workplace, an Integrated Masters in Chiropractic, MChiro and a multitude of soft-tissue therapy qualifications. His soft tissue qualifications range from certificate level right through to a BTEC Level 5 Advanced Diploma in Clinical Sports and Remedial Massage Therapy. Terry also has extensive experience in security, work, health and safety and holds relevant certifications. He has also taught as a senior course coach at Advanced Diploma level (Myotherapy / Musculoskeletal Therapy) in Australia, both theoretical and practical aspects including advanced Myofascial Release Techniques and has certification in training and assessment. Terry will have taught many of the first students to train as Myotherapists in Brisbane. Terry's combination of knowledge through education, training, elite military service, and personal injury history has paid dividends for the patients he sees and has treated over the last 15 years. He has extensive experience treating chronic pain and work and sports-related musculoskeletal injuries. Terry is still very active and enjoys distance running, kayaking, mountain biking and endurance-type activities.

TotalMSK
The Corporate Wellness and Musculoskeletal Specialists


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