Unlocking the Secrets of Adjusting and Manual Therapy for Myofascial Dysfunction through Chiropractic CEU Online Posted on Sep 29, 2023

Unlocking the Secrets of Adjusting and Manual Therapy for Myofascial Dysfunction through Chiropractic CE Onlineimage of manual therapy on our chiropractic ce online pageCCEDseminars | Your Prime Destination For Chiropractic Continuing Education Online Courses!

The art of adjusting and manual therapy is at the core of chiropractic practice, and understanding the nuances can make all the difference in patient outcomes. One condition that chiropractors often encounter is myofascial dysfunction. This post aims to explore how chiropractic CEU online courses offer valuable insights into treating this condition effectively.

What is Myofascial Dysfunction?

Myofascial dysfunction is a musculoskeletal condition characterized by pain, stiffness, and restricted range of motion in the muscles and surrounding fascia—the connective tissue that envelops muscles. This condition can result from muscle overuse, injury, emotional stress, poor posture, or even systemic conditions. Myofascial dysfunction often presents as "trigger points," localized areas of tenderness that may also produce referred pain in other parts of the body.

The underlying mechanism of myofascial dysfunction is not entirely understood, but several theories exist. One popular theory posits that muscle overuse or trauma leads to the formation of trigger points. These are hyper-irritable spots within a taut band of muscle fibers. Trigger points are thought to involve a dysfunctional cycle of muscle contraction and relaxation, potentially caused by an imbalance in neurotransmitter release at the neuromuscular junction.

This dysfunction can lead to localized areas of decreased blood flow, oxygenation, and a build-up of metabolic waste, further exacerbating muscle tension and pain. The fascia surrounding the affected muscle can also become stiff and less compliant, contributing to a vicious cycle of pain, tension, and limited mobility.

The fascial system is interconnected throughout the body, so dysfunction in one area can potentially affect other regions, leading to a range of symptoms and making myofascial dysfunction a complex condition to manage.

The Importance of Continuing Education Units (CEU)

With an ever-evolving healthcare landscape, chiropractors need to stay updated with the latest techniques and research. Online continuing education units (CEU) provide an excellent platform for this. For instance, CCEDseminars offer a variety of courses focusing on different aspects of chiropractic care, including myofascial dysfunction. Click HERE for more resources!

Adjusting Techniques for Myofascial Dysfunction

Chiropractic adjustments can significantly improve the symptoms of myofascial dysfunction. Techniques such as Spinal Manipulative Therapy (SMT) or Instrument Methods can target the spinal subluxations contributing to myofascial pain.

Manual Therapy Approaches

Aside from adjustments, manual therapy techniques like myofascial release and trigger point therapy can be highly effective. These are hands-on techniques that involve applying gentle, sustained pressure on the myofascial connective tissue.

Various Manual Therapy Approaches:

  1. Spinal Manipulation: This chiropractic technique involves high-velocity, low-amplitude thrusts to improve spinal function and alleviate back pain.

  2. Joint Mobilization: In this approach, the therapist uses slow, rhythmic movements to stretch an affected joint, aiming to improve its range of motion.

  3. Soft Tissue Mobilization: This encompasses a range of techniques designed to relax muscles, break up scar tissue, and ease muscle pain. Techniques include effleurage and petrissage.

  4. Myofascial Release: A specialized form of soft tissue mobilization, myofascial release aims to relax contracted muscles, improve blood circulation, and stimulate the stretch reflex in the muscles and overlying fascia.

  5. Active Release Technique (ART): This involves applying pressure on a muscle while stretching it to release adhesions and restore natural movement.

  6. Trigger Point Therapy: The therapist applies pressure to trigger points, or hyperirritable spots in skeletal muscle, to alleviate pain and release tension.

  7. Muscle Energy Techniques: The patient is directed to use their muscles from a controlled position in specific directions against a counterforce applied by the therapist.

  8. Neuromuscular Therapy: This method balances the nervous system with the muscular and skeletal systems and is used to naturally manage pain and stress from chronic injuries.

  9. Strain-Counterstrain: This technique involves finding a point of minimal discomfort and holding the patient's body in such a position until the tension is released.

  10. Craniosacral Therapy: A gentle, non-invasive technique aimed at enhancing the function of the craniosacral system, comprising the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord.

  11. Visceral Manipulation: This involves gentle manipulations to treat organs like the liver, kidneys, and intestines, thereby improving structural integrity throughout the body.

  12. Rolfing: This approach aims to improve body alignment and functioning by manipulating the body’s myofascial system.

These manual therapy techniques offer various ways to address musculoskeletal issues, often serving as complementary treatments to more traditional medical interventions.

The Synergy of Adjusting and Manual Therapy

The combination of chiropractic adjustments and manual therapy can be particularly effective. It not only addresses the underlying skeletal biomechanical dysfunction but also alleviates the muscular tension contributing to the dysfunction.

Learning through Chiropractic CEU Online

Online chiropractic CEU courses make it easier than ever to acquire this knowledge. You can learn at your own pace, review the material as often as needed, and even interact with experts in the field.

Conclusion

Staying at the forefront of chiropractic care demands continual learning and adaptation. Online chiropractic CEU, particularly those from CCEDseminars, can be an invaluable resource for mastering the art of adjusting and manual therapy for myofascial dysfunction.

References:

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  •  11. George, J.W., Tunstall, A.C., Tepe, R.E. and Skaggs, C.D., 2006. The effects of active release technique on hamstring flexibility: a pilot study. Journal of manipulative and physiological therapeutics, 29(3), pp.224-227. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0161475406000376
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