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Explanation of MyoSkeletal Alignment

Myoskeletal Alignment is performed to bring order and balance to the body thus preventing the onset of pain. Think of it as a tune up. Another purpose is to establish pain-free movement during the walking cycle and to relieve pain already present.

The MAT massage therapy assessment routine simplifies the search for hidden strain patterns that commonly cause neck and back pain. The five minute Myoskeletal assessment routines are intentionally simplified to save time and allow them to be performed on the massage table in a typical bodywork massage format. Neck and low back structures are then addressed in a precise order with special attention given to the type of tissue being manipulated.

Tight shortened muscles create, while weak inhibited muscles permit, a lack of symmetry in the skeletal system. Then other structures tend to quickly become involved in the chronic pain cycle.

In the Myoskeletal method, deep tissue massage, myofascial release, and assisted stretching routines release and lengthen hypertonic muscles, while faster-paced techniques tone the weak phasic muscles.

As an example Myoskeletal massage therapists typically address pain generators such as lax or loose ligaments with rapid frictioning maneuvers to encourage fibroblast (connective tissue cells) formation. Conversely, tight or short ligaments are released with deep, sustained pressure.

Both syndromes shown below result in restricted movement...and pain.

	Upper Crossed Syndrome The forward head is the most common postural fault seen in our society.  Shoulder elevation and rounding toward the front are prevalent in this syndrome.
	Lower Crossed Syndrome Excessive lordosis (curvature) in the lower spine with a forward tilted pelvis  is a common appearance with this condition. Often referred to as a “sway-back” The lower back may also present with a flattened appearance (not enough curvature)

If muscles are lax for extened periods of time they will take up the slack. Prolonged periods of sitting result in some muscles becoming shortened and hypertonic. Their opposing muscles will weaken, allowing for an abnormal strain on skeletal structures.

Prolonged standing may also create difficulties in joints as non symetrical stressors impact on the skeleton.

The MAT system works to achieve the following goals:

• Balancing the head on the neck 
• Balancing the neck on the shoulders 
• Balancing the shoulder girdle on the rib cage 
• Balancing the pelvis on the femurs 
• Restoring pain-free movement

The success we desire is pain-free, mobile, and fully functioning bodies.

Norm Hamilton is a certified Advanced Myosleketal Alignment Technician 
and is pleased to offer this safe, non-intrusive, effective technique to you.

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