Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/68165
ACTIVE ISOLATED STRETCHING The Mattes Method, Part 2 In Part 1 of this article, I began describing Aaron Mattes's Active Isolated Stretching (AIS), explaining the seven defining characteristics of this uniquely effective modality. Here in Part 2, I'll talk in greater depth about the specific ways in which AIS can complement other forms of bodywork and increase a therapist's efficiency and effectiveness. I'll also give a brief overview of how these techniques can be incorporated into a massage therapy practice. To consider combining a new skill with the work we already do, we need to know what specific, additional benefits it will bring to the clients we see. I've found that AIS adds to the efficiency and effectiveness of bodywork in four different areas: general health enhancement; injury prevention; pain and injury treatment; and improvement of degenerative conditions. GENERAL HEALTH ENHANCEMENT While many clients seek out massage therapy to help with particular pain or injury problems, these conditions are often tied to deeper health issues. For most clients I see, regaining full, healthy functioning requires not just healing a few isolated tissues, but helping to restore balance and resilience to the entire body. AIS can play a central role in that process by enhancing flexibility, strength, and the overall health of both joints and soft tissues. It should come as no surprise that AIS improves flexibility; that's the least we can expect from any stretching program. What's remarkable is the amount of improvement it can bring, particularly to those who have experienced severe limitations due to aging, arthritis, or chronic injuries. I have always believed that as we age, our flexibility diminishes permanently. When I saw the range of motion in my own joints gradually decline (despite regular exercise and stretching), I attributed this to mild age-related arthritis that would probably continue to worsen over time. I was surprised and delighted to find that AIS could not only stop that decline, but even reverse it—I've seen flexibility return to my shoulders, neck, back, hips, thighs, and feet, and I have greater freedom and range of motion than I remember ever having. For instance, I can now reach my lower scapula with my fingers from above and below, something I assumed I would never be able to do. At the same time, I've grown progressively stronger, even building strength at the end of my range of motion, where we are all generally weakest. Overall, I feel about 20 years younger than I did when I began. Clients with whom I've done AIS work have shown similar, striking changes. In addition to working on muscles, AIS also helps to develop healthy joints. When the practitioner places repeated, gentle tension on the fibers contained in a joint structure at multiple angles, the fibers of the joint itself are exercised and strengthened. Joint sensitivity and irritation diminish and often disappear with this type of stretching, especially in the hands and feet. Another benefit is that by simultaneously stretching the muscle on one side of a joint and strengthening its counterpart on the other side, AIS creates a balance of muscular tone that leaves the joint stronger and more resilient. Furthermore, the gentle, repetitive motion improves the circulation of blood and nutrients, supporting the healthy growth and repair of all the surrounding soft tissues. It also improves the circulation and drainage of lymph, helping to eliminate waste products.1 connect with your colleagues on massageprofessionals.com 89