Positional Release Therapy for Tender Points

Positional Release Therapy (PRT), also known as Strain-Counterstrain, is a gentle manual therapy technique used to reduce pain and muscle tension. It is particularly effective for addressing tender points, which are hyperirritable spots in muscle or fascia associated with neuromuscular dysfunction.

What Is Positional Release Therapy?

PRT involves placing the affected muscle or joint into a position of comfort, usually shortening the muscle, to reduce tension and reset neural activity. This position is held for 90 seconds before the body is slowly returned to neutral. By reducing abnormal proprioceptive activity, PRT alleviates pain and restores balance in the musculoskeletal system.

Protocol for Treating Tender Points

1. Identify Tender Points
   • Palpate muscles to locate sensitive spots that reproduce patient-reported pain.
   • Document baseline