Soft Tissue Therapy and Myofascial Release in Orem, Utah
Soft tissue therapy is a hands-on treatment that targets muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia to release tension, break up adhesions, and restore proper tissue function. Dr. Drussel provides myofascial release and trigger point therapy at Integrative Motion in Orem, UT.
What Is Soft Tissue Therapy?
Soft tissue therapy is a broad category of manual treatment techniques that address problems in muscles, tendons, ligaments, and the connective tissue (fascia) that surrounds and supports every structure in your body. When soft tissues become damaged, scarred, or chronically tight, they restrict movement, compress nerves, and generate pain.
At Integrative Motion in Orem, Utah, Dr. Dustin Drussel uses several specialized soft tissue techniques including myofascial release, trigger point therapy, instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM), and active release methods. Each technique serves a specific purpose and is selected based on the type and location of your soft tissue dysfunction.
Soft tissue therapy is not the same as a spa massage. It is a clinical, therapeutic treatment delivered by a licensed healthcare provider with an advanced understanding of musculoskeletal anatomy. Dr. Drussel's Master of Science in Sports Rehabilitation gives him specialized training in soft tissue assessment and treatment that goes far beyond what a standard chiropractic program covers.
Soft Tissue Techniques We Use
Myofascial Release: Fascia is a continuous web of connective tissue that wraps around every muscle, organ, and bone in your body. When fascia becomes restricted due to injury, surgery, or chronic tension, it can pull on surrounding structures and cause pain in areas far from the original problem. Myofascial release applies sustained pressure to these restrictions, allowing the fascia to lengthen, soften, and release.
Trigger Point Therapy: Trigger points are hyperirritable knots within a taut band of muscle. They can produce localized pain and referred pain (pain felt in a different location than the trigger point itself). Dr. Drussel identifies and deactivates trigger points using sustained pressure, which releases the muscle contraction and restores normal blood flow to the area.
Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM): This technique uses specially designed stainless steel tools to detect and treat scar tissue adhesions, fascial restrictions, and chronic soft tissue inflammation. The tools allow Dr. Drussel to apply precise pressure over a broader area than his hands alone can cover.
Active Release Techniques: These combine patient movement with directed soft tissue pressure to break up adhesions while the muscle is in motion. This approach is particularly effective for repetitive strain injuries, tendinitis, and athletic overuse conditions.
Benefits of Soft Tissue Therapy
- Relief from chronic muscle tension and tightness
- Breakdown of scar tissue and adhesions
- Improved range of motion and flexibility
- Reduced pain from trigger points and referred pain patterns
- Faster recovery from injuries and surgery
- Enhanced circulation and tissue healing
- Better response to chiropractic adjustments (soft tissue work before adjustments makes them more effective)
- Prevention of chronic pain patterns from developing
What to Expect
Soft tissue therapy at Integrative Motion is typically incorporated into your chiropractic visit rather than performed as a standalone service. Dr. Drussel evaluates your soft tissue function as part of his initial examination and determines which areas need attention based on your symptoms, movement patterns, and treatment goals.
During treatment, you may feel pressure that ranges from moderate to firm depending on the technique and the area being treated. Dr. Drussel communicates throughout the session and adjusts the intensity based on your feedback. Some mild soreness in the treated area for 24 to 48 hours is normal and indicates that the tissue is responding to treatment.
Wear comfortable clothing that allows access to the treatment area. Athletic wear or loose-fitting clothes work best. You will remain clothed during treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. While both involve hands-on treatment of muscles, soft tissue therapy is a clinical, diagnostic treatment performed by a licensed healthcare provider. Dr. Drussel uses soft tissue techniques to address specific musculoskeletal dysfunctions identified during your examination. It is more targeted and therapeutic than a general relaxation massage.
You may feel some discomfort during treatment, especially when trigger points or scar tissue adhesions are being addressed. The pressure should feel firm but tolerable, not sharp or unbearable. Dr. Drussel checks in throughout the session and adjusts intensity based on your feedback. Post-treatment soreness for 24 to 48 hours is normal.
Soft tissue therapy and chiropractic adjustments work hand in hand. Tight muscles and fascial restrictions can pull vertebrae back out of alignment after an adjustment. By releasing those soft tissue restrictions first, the adjustment holds longer and is more effective. This combination approach is a key reason patients at Integrative Motion see faster, more lasting results.
Soft tissue therapy performed by a chiropractor is typically covered when billed as part of your chiropractic treatment. Most major insurance plans accepted at Integrative Motion cover these services. Auto insurance (PIP) also covers soft tissue therapy for car accident injuries. We verify your specific coverage before treatment begins.
Related Services
Release the Tension
Book soft tissue therapy with Dr. Drussel at Integrative Motion in Orem, Utah. Get targeted treatment for your specific condition.