Arthrokinetic Inhibition: Our brain's ability to shut down movement

"Arthrokinetic Inhibition" is a protective mechanism in which an injury to a joint sends a message to the muscles that cross it not to fully contract.

I think it is outstanding that the brain shuts down an injured joint to protect it, but it does come with some drawbacks. Primarily, lack of normal movement and the feeling of weakness. This is great while the injury heals, but not so once the area no longer requires the disruption in normal function. Most think that they have to accept this as the new way their body will function; however, there are massage techniques that can help when the body doesn't get the memo from the brain that the protection is no longer needed.

Massage therapy can help to bring the joint into better movement after the acute injury stage is over - typically, 4-7 days after the occurrence.

To find out more and to discover if massage therapy can help you, visit: