| MUSCLE ACTIVATION TECHNIQUES |
| Muscle Activation Techniques (MAT)™ is a revolutionary manual therapy that identifies and corrects muscular imbalances. From a biomechanics perspective, MAT™ looks at how all joints are interrelated and how abnormal mechanics in one joint may affect motion at another joint. MAT™ helps to restore proper joint alignment and function, thereby, decreasing pain and reducing the risk of injury. MAT™ also prepares the body for all types of exercise by increasing its capacity to handle physical stress.
WHAT IS INVOLVED IN A MAT™ SESSION? The MAT™ procedure begins with a comprehensive biomechanics assessment to search for muscular imbalances and joint instabilities. This is followed by specific muscle testing to evaluate the neurological integrity of the muscles. A form of manual therapy called precision palpation is utilized to help activate inhibited muscles. Isometric exercises are also prescribed to reinforce the newly activated muscles. HOW IS MAT™ DIFFERENT? MAT™ involves a new paradigm shift in how tightness is viewed. Traditionally, tightness or restricted range of motion at a joint is treated by directly decreasing the muscle tension using various techniques like stretching and massage. MAT™ views muscle tightness as secondary to muscle weakness. From this perspective, muscle tightness is your body’s protective mechanism preventing you from getting into a position of instability. Thus, MAT™ focuses on treating the underlying weak muscle. Optimal joint function requires mobility AND stability. WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM MAT™? Everyone benefits from having more efficient mechanics and an optimal muscular system. Whether you are coming out of surgery, have repetitive stress injuries or experiencing pain, MAT™ can speed up the healing process by providing a more balanced neuromuscular system. Muscles become inhibited from stress, overuse or trauma (i.e. injuries, surgeries). If inhibited muscles are left untreated, the body can develop compensatory patterns that may accelerate the degeneration of joints or lead to other injuries MAT™ BRIDGES THE GAP BETWEEN FITNESS AND REHABILITATION MAT™ helps to bridge the gap by serving as a thorough and comprehensive biomechanics assessment and muscle-based therapy. Traditional concentric strengthening exercises are prescribed in almost every rehab modality. However, if there are underlying muscle inhibitions, exercises will reinforce muscles that are strong but override the weak ones. In other words, imbalances are magnified because the strong will get stronger while the weak will remain weak. By addressing the integrity of the neuromuscular system, MAT™ can dramatically increase the effectiveness of every other modality. You are only as strong as your weakest link! |
