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Intersegmental Traction
Intersegmental Traction (IST) is a way of inducing passive motion into the spine for the purpose of stretching spinal joints, increasing mobility. The patient lies face-up on a bench table which has roller cams under the surface. These rollers slowly travel the length of the spine, stretching the joints. Most patients find it relaxing and restful. | |
Interferential Current Therapy (Electro-Muscle Stimulation)|
 | Interferntial Current/Electro-Muscle Stimulation (IFC/EMS) is a therapeutic treatment to aid in pain relief and promote soft tissue healing. Tiny amounts of electrical impulses are induced into the tissue adjacent to the injury. Where these waves intersect below the surface of the skin, low frequency stimulation is created, prompting the body to secrete endorphins (pain relieving hormones). Most patients find the treatment extremely beneficial and describe it as a "tingling" sensation. It is most often used for pain relief and to aid in reducing soft tissue swelling. Sprains, strains and spasms often respond to this treatment, which also reduces atrophy and increases blood circulation. |
Ultrasound | |
Ultrasound is a therapeutic treatment using high-frequency sound waves in the region of soft tissue injuries. Sound vibrations penetrate deep into tissue, causing a heat response. These vibrations and heat break down and disperse calcium and other hard tissue accumulations. It uses gel to conduct the sound waves. This gel may momentarily feel cool, but otherwise, most patients feel nothing at the time of treatment. Relief comes a few minutes to hours later. The rise in temperature, increased blood flow, and relaxed muscle spasms speed the healing process. | |
Infrared Light Therapy | |
In infrared light therapy, light photons are applied to the tissue and absorbed by mitochondria in the cells. This increases adenosine triphoshate (ATP) synthesis, which increases DNA and protein synthesis within the cell. The result of this process is faster repair of damaged tissue. ILT is a very rapid treatment, usually lasting under two minutes. Most patients feel only a slight vibration. It is most effective for carpal tunnel syndrome, TMJ dysfunction, plantar fascitis, tennis and golfer's elbows, arthritic conditions and ligament sprains. |
Trigger Point Therapy and Myofascial Release Therapy | |
Trigger points are areas of uncontrolled muscle tightness, which cause tenderness and occasionally referred pain, and interfere with normal muscle and joint motion. Some people call them "knots." Fascia is the connective tissue surrounding muscles. Restrictions in the fascia also interfere with normal joint motion and can cause pain.
Trigger point therapy and myofascial release therapy both use the hands or other instruments to locate tight bands or nodules of muscle and fascial fibers. Then, the muscle/fascia is compressed with sustained pressure to relax it and release any adhesions. As pressure is applied, some patients feel temporary discomfort until the muscle relaxes. Others may feel pain referred to other parts of the body. Both therapies are highly effective ways to reduce muscle spasm and soft tissue adhesions, restoring normal range of motion and promoting faster tissue healing. They also help break down scar tissue formation and promote better circulation. | |
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