Training Overview:
- This one-day course introduces participants to Positional Release Therapy (PRT), also known as the Strain-Counterstrain Technique. PRT is a gentle, non-invasive manual therapy that relieves pain and dysfunction by placing the body in a position of comfort, allowing tissues to relax and heal. This workshop covers the theory behind the technique, its effects on the musculoskeletal and nervous systems, and hands-on practice of key positions for various body areas. Participants will learn how to assess and treat muscle strain, joint restrictions, and trigger points using PRT.
Course Objectives:
- By the end of the training, participants will:
- Understand the fundamental principles of Strain-Counterstrain and its historical development.
- Learn how the technique affects muscle spindles, proprioceptors, and the autonomic nervous system.
- Be able to assess clients for muscle strain, joint dysfunction, and trigger points.
- Develop practical skills in applying positional release techniques to various areas of the body.
- Understand the therapeutic indications and contraindications for PRT.
Target Audience:
- This course is designed for sports massage therapists of minimum level 4 qualification interested in learning Positional Release Therapy (Strain-Counterstrain Technique) and integrating it into their practice. This one-day course will provide participants with the knowledge and hands-on skills to apply Strain-Counterstrain techniques effectively, helping clients with pain relief and improving musculoskeletal function.
Course Schedule:
- Registration & Introduction:
- Participant registration and welcome
- Overview of course structure and objectives
- Introduction to Positional Release Therapy (Strain-Counterstrain Technique):
- Historical background and development by Dr. Lawrence Jones
- Key principles: addressing tender points through positional release
- How the technique differs from other manual therapies (e.g., trigger point therapy, myofascial release)
- Module 1: Theoretical Foundation of Strain-Counterstrain:
- Neuromuscular Physiology and the Strain-Counterstrain Response:
- Understanding muscle spindle function and proprioception
- How strain-counterstrain relieves tension by resetting the muscle spindle reflex
- The role of the autonomic nervous system in muscle relaxation and pain relief
- Tender Points and Somatic Dysfunction:
- Identifying tender points in muscles and fascia
- How tender points correspond to areas of strain and dysfunction
- The concept of indirect treatment by placing tissues in positions of comfort
- Therapeutic Indications:
- Conditions treated with Strain-Counterstrain (muscle strain, joint restrictions, acute pain, chronic pain)
- Common areas of treatment: neck, shoulders, back, hips, knees, and feet
- Contraindications and Safety:
- Identifying when not to use positional release therapy (e.g., acute fractures, severe osteoporosis)
- Module 2: Practical Introduction to Strain-Counterstrain Technique:
- Basic Principles of Positional Release:
- Finding and palpating tender points: how to locate and assess tissue tightness
- Positioning the client in a pain-free, relaxed posture to release tension
- Monitoring the release and reassessing the tender point
- Demonstration of Key Positions:
- Techniques for releasing tension in the neck, shoulders, and upper back
- Demonstrating passive positioning and subtle adjustments to encourage tissue release
- Monitoring client feedback and tissue response during the session
- Hands-On Practice - Upper Body:
- Participants practice locating tender points and positioning for release
- Focus on areas such as the cervical spine, trapezius, and upper back muscles
- Instructor feedback on hand placement, positioning, and patient comfort
- Module 3: Practical Application - Lower Body Techniques:
- Strain-Counterstrain for the Lower Back, Hips, and Legs:
- Finding tender points and applying positional release to lower back and hip flexors
- Specific positions for the lumbar spine, gluteals, hamstrings, and quadriceps
- Techniques for addressing knee and ankle pain using positional release
- Demonstration and Hands-On Practice - Lower Body:
- Demonstration of how to position clients to release strain in the lower body
- Participants practice hands-on techniques with a focus on lumbar and sacral regions
- Feedback on correct positioning and adjustments for maximum comfort and effectiveness
- Clinical Applications for Lower Body Conditions:
- Treating conditions like sciatica, iliotibial band syndrome, and plantar fasciitis
- Module 4: Integrating Strain-Counterstrain into Clinical Practice:
- Developing Treatment Plans Using Strain-Counterstrain:
- How to incorporate PRT into a full treatment session
- Combining PRT with other modalities
- Timing and sequencing of techniques for efficient and effective treatments
- Assessing Client Progress:
- How to track and assess changes in tissue tension and client pain levels over multiple sessions
- Reassessing tender points after treatment to gauge effectiveness
- Adjusting techniques and treatment plans based on client feedback and progress
- Demonstration and Hands-On Practice - Complex Cases:
- Participants practice integrating upper and lower body techniques in more complex treatment scenarios
- Working with clients who have multiple areas of strain or chronic dysfunction
- Instructor feedback and case study discussions
- Module 5: Review, Q&A:
- Review of Key Techniques and Principles:
- Recap of key PRT techniques covered throughout the day
- Common challenges and solutions in clinical application
- Open forum for participant questions, clarifications, and case study discussions
- Client Communication and Aftercare:
- Educating clients on the process of positional release and what to expect after treatment
- Advising clients on self-care, hydration, and stretching after a session
Discussing post-treatment soreness or temporary discomfort and how to manage it