What are the benefits of using gentle soft tissue techniques for treating neck pain?

Gentle soft tissue techniques, such as myofascial release, craniosacral therapy, and massage, are highly effective for both acute and chronic neck pain. For acute injuries like whiplash, aggressive techniques can trigger a defensive response in the nervous system, leading to muscle guarding and increased tension. Gentle approaches, on the other hand, help calm the nervous system, reduce protective muscle contractions, and create a pathway for healing. These techniques should only be used once a physician has cleared the client for treatment.

For chronic neck tightness caused by past injuries or poor posture, these techniques help release long-held tension patterns and retrain the nervous system to adopt a more relaxed and functional posture. While immediate relief is possible, lasting change usually requires multiple treatments. If no significant improvement is observed after three sessions, a referral to a chiropractor or osteopath may be necessary. Importantly, gentle chiropractic adjustments that avoid high-velocity thrusts are preferred to prevent unnecessary stress on the tissues.

This Ask the Expert is an edited excerpt from the course, "Advanced Soft Tissue Approaches for the Neck," presented by Kate Peck, LMT, BCTMB.