Active-Assisted Stretching can be a useful tool for enhancing functional range of motion at a given joint over basic active stretching due to the increased tension. Assisted Stretching is a type of stretching technique that involves a combination of active and passive stretching methods to help improve flexibility, mobility, and range of motion. In this type of stretching, the person being stretched actively contracts the muscle while a partner or a device assists in stretching the muscle beyond its current range of motion.

During active assisted stretching, the person being stretched typically takes an active role in the stretching process by engaging the muscle being stretched. For example, if stretching the hamstrings, the person being stretched may actively contract the hamstring muscle by attempting to pull the heel towards the buttocks. The stretching partner then assists in stretching the muscle further by applying gentle pressure or pulling the leg towards them.

Active assisted stretching can be used to target specific muscle groups, and it can be performed in a variety of ways, such as with a partner, with a stretching strap or band, or with a stretching device. 

It's important to note that active assisted stretching should be performed under the guidance of a trained professional to ensure proper technique and safety.

PNF (Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation) is a type of stretching technique that involves the contraction and relaxation of muscles to enhance flexibility, strength, and range of motion. PNF was initially developed as a rehabilitation technique in the 1940s and has since been widely used in physical therapy and athletic training.

PNF stretching typically involves a partner or therapist who assists in the stretching process. The technique involves alternating between active contractions and passive stretches of a muscle group. The muscle group being stretched is first contracted isometrically (without movement), then relaxed, and then stretched further with the help of the partner.

PNF stretching is based on the principles of neuromuscular physiology and is designed to improve communication between the nervous system and muscles. The technique utilizes a series of specific patterns of muscle contraction and relaxation to facilitate the brain's control over muscle movement and improve muscle function.

There are several variations of PNF stretching, including the hold-relax technique, the contract-relax technique, and the hold-relax-contract technique. Each variation involves a slightly different sequence of muscle contractions and stretches.

PNF stretching can be particularly effective in improving flexibility, especially when combined with other stretching techniques. It is commonly used in physical therapy to rehabilitate injured muscles and improve range of motion in individuals with mobility impairments. It is also used by athletes to enhance their performance and prevent injury.

Passive Assisted Stretching is a type of stretching technique that involves a partner or therapist gently moving the limbs or joints of the person being stretched through a range of motion without any active participation from the person being stretched. The person being stretched is usually relaxed and allows their body to be moved by the stretching partner.

Passive assisted stretching is often used in physical therapy, sports medicine, and fitness training to improve flexibility, range of motion, and muscle relaxation. It can be particularly useful for individuals who have mobility limitations, are recovering from an injury, or have a condition that affects their flexibility.

The stretching partner applies gentle pressure to the limb or joint being stretched, gradually increasing the range of motion until a stretch is felt. The stretch is held for a period of time to allow the muscle fibers to lengthen and relax. The partner then slowly releases the stretch.

Passive assisted stretching can be performed in a variety of positions, such as lying down, sitting, or standing. It can also be combined with other stretching techniques, such as static stretching or PNF stretching, for a more comprehensive stretching routine.

It's important to note that passive assisted stretching should be performed under the guidance of a trained professional to ensure proper technique and safety. Stretching too aggressively or using incorrect form can result in injury.

What is Percussion Therapy?

Percussion Therapy is a treatment modality that directs a vibrational force into the affected area of your body. This force goes deeper than many manual muscular treatments can affect, making it a great way to increase blood flow, improve range of motion, decrease inflammation and general muscle soreness, along with decreasing pain. At Just Stretch It, we utilize the Theragun Mini by Therabody to perform our percussion therapy.

Why Does Percussion Therapy Work?

To simplify the process at play with percussion therapy, it is similar to rubbing your elbow for pain relief after banging it on a surface. Your joints and muscles have receptors that transmit position and touch sensations to brain. Some of these sensations are perceived as pain, and others are perceived as alleviation of pain, or dulling of pain. 

Percussion or Vibratory therapy over muscles silences pain transmission to the brain by stimulating receptors called Pacinian Corpuscles. These are receptors that relax your muscle in response to pressure and vibratory stimuli.

Percussion Therapy over your joints stimulate receptors called mechanoreceptors. These mechanoreceptors send signals to your brain that actively override the pain stimulus being sent to the brain from that particular joint, thus providing relief of pain at the affected area.

Does Percussion Therapy Hurt?

Percussion Therapy is beneficial both before your adjustment in order to relax and alleviate musculature surrounding your affected area, and before/after workouts to either prime your muscles for activity, or help to reduce general soreness and inflammation stored within the musculature.