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David Allen
20 YEARS EXPERIENCE OF SPINAL RELEASE
I am a professionally trained Sports Masseur and I am qualified to provide a complete range of remedial massage techniques including the application of pressure to inhibit and release muscular tension, and the mobilisation (articulation) of joints through their normal range of movement.
Although the techniques I use are quite standard, it is the way that they are combined in the “Turn for the Better” method that makes this system so much more effective. I developed the first principles myself in 1989 when I was struggling to recover from major spinal surgery and I have continued to refine the system ever since for the benefit of my patients. (for more information see My History ).
In recent years, a spinal release method has been introduced to the UK from Germany called the Dorn Technique. Although developed independently, I believe that both systems use the same trigger mechanism within the body for spinal release. Elements of my technique which use sustained pressure on the myofascia also work in a similar way to the American system of “Rolfing” developed by Ida Rolf and more recently evolved by Jeffrey Maitland.
“TURN FOR THE BETTER”
This is an improved method to restore flexibility and function to stiff and damaged spines.
The technique starts with a simple rotational analysis to locate the points of tension. The significant advance in treatment that I offer is a method to simultaneously combine the use of finger or thumb pressure to inhibit tension at points on the spine, whilst the client bends and turns laterally to achieve the necessary mobilisation. This takes advantage of a localised muscle release to restore mobility to the relevant spinal section without over-working any other.
When tension is released from the inter-vertebral muscles (responsible in my experience for most spinal seizures), vertebral displacements tend to spring back naturally into line. This avoids the need for high velocity thrust (“click”) type manipulation techniques, as often used by osteopaths, chiropractors and physiotherapists. As the spine straightens and relaxes, nerve compression in the area is released, and pain along the referred tension pathway is eased.
This gentle, controlled, mobilisation technique involves no sudden movements, it is equally effective on thoracic and lumbar tensions, and is inherently safer than other “forced movement” techniques as in this method the client directly controls the limit of mobilisation. He applies the force himself, and is able to control this within his own natural pain threshold.
REMEDIAL MASSAGE
The technique of massage is the oldest and most natural therapy in existence for the relief of pain. Anyone who has hurt themselves will recognise the immediate instinct, and want to simply “rub it better”.
The professional use of Remedial Massage has built on this instinct. A detailed knowledge of anatomy and physiology, the correct functioning of muscles, ligaments and tendons, together with a comprehensive range of manual techniques has created an integrated holistic therapy system.
Remedial Massage, based on the evolutionary need to overcome the stresses of our prehistoric lives on the plains and in the jungles, is ideally placed to help us overcome the stress and strain of our modern life too.
Sensitive palpation skills enable the location of tensions that evade the most advanced mechanical scanners.
Manual techniques such as stroking, pressing, kneading, friction and mobilisation speed the body’s natural healing processes by:
• increasing blood and lymphatic flow
• breaking down scar tissue and adhesions
• stretching and toning muscles
• releasing pressure on trapped nerves
• restoring mobility to the limbs
• reducing stress in general
Remedial Massage not only helps deal with the immediate effects of accidental injuries, aches, strains, sprains etc, it also helps in the longer term to prevent the recurrence of problems by keeping the body fitter and more flexible.
VIBROTHERAPY
When muscles are generally tense, the use of commercial forms of vibrotherapy applied in the area of tension can be an aid to facilitated release. Differing frequencies of vibration will be appropriate to particular tissues, but in general I find the palpable effect of low frequency is better to work with than the high frequency of ultrasound.
REHABILITATION
Recovery from pain and injury is not solely dependent on what happens in the treatment room. It is a partnership of effort between the therapist and the sufferer. Prior to treatment, the sufferer’s life may have been controlled by the pain. Successful treatment gives a chance to turn this situation around.
The maxim “Use it or lose it” applies. The restoration of the body’s mobility and strength is vital in the long term. A programme of exercises is essential to build up weakened muscles and restore movement to restricted joints.
Any person hoping to maintain control of his own life, and avoid relapse into pain after treatment has finished must expect to continue some form of exercise.
SUPPLEMENTS
I am a strong believer in the use of massage with therapeutic herbs especially Comfrey and Arnica. I use these in the course of normal treatments and also recommend them for self massage use at home.
I believe that anyone on a normal healthy diet should not need to take so called “health food” dietary supplements in order to maintain a functional body.
I do, however equally believe that certain people with particular tensions, and degenerative disorders such as osteo-arthritis can be helped. Products such as MSM, Glucosamine and Chondroitin are generally regarded as safe and effective aids to recovery.
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