Positional Release, also known as strain-counterstrain or tender point release, is a manual therapy technique used by healthcare professionals such as physical therapists, osteopaths, and chiropractors. It is designed to alleviate pain and muscle tension by gently repositioning the body into a more comfortable and less painful position. This technique is particularly effective for addressing muscle spasms, trigger points, and other musculoskeletal issues.

During a positional release session, the therapist carefully identifies tender points or areas of discomfort in the client’s body. These points may be associated with muscle knots or areas of tension. Once identified, the therapist gently guides the client’s body into a position that reduces the tension and discomfort in the affected area. This position is often held for a short period, typically around 90 seconds, allowing the muscles to relax and release their tension.

Positional release is a gentle and non-invasive approach to pain relief that is well-tolerated by most clients. It can be used to address a wide range of musculoskeletal issues, including back pain, neck pain, headaches, and joint pain. One of its key advantages is its ability to provide rapid pain relief, often within minutes of the technique being applied.

Overall, positional release is a valuable addition to the toolkit of manual therapists, offering an effective and patient-friendly method for managing pain and promoting muscle relaxation. It is often integrated into comprehensive treatment plans to complement other forms of therapy and enhance overall well-being.