Muscle Activation Techniques (MAT)
We use Muscle Activation Techniques (MAT) to improve movement
What is MAT?
Muscle Activation is a way of restoring muscle function and relieving muscle tightness
Muscles often become tight because they are trying to protect some instability that has arisen around a joint
Instability is usually related to weakness in one or more of the muscles that oppose the tight muscle(s)
The usual response to muscle tightness is to stretch it out, but simply stretching out doesn’t address the cause. It can create more instability
Through arrange of movement assessments we are able to highlight restrictions and then test the strength of associated muscles
Muscles that test weak are then strengthened through manual palpation or via isometric exercises
The muscles are then re tested to ensure the activation has been successful
The result is improved movement around the joint and the removal of tightness
One movement has been restored further strengthening and stretching exercises can be undertaken with more effect