Here is a brief history of notable mentors who have inspired me to develop my 3-point plan of testing, interactive myofascial massage with short stretches, and prescription movement videos.
First, I learned to begin my sessions by testing movement patterns to help develop and direct a working strategy. This was influenced by the Functional Movement Systems and the Selective Functional Movement Assessment (SFMA), both developed by internationally-known physical therapist Gray Cook.
I had the honor of working with Mr. Cook in 2019 and received positive feedback as I demonstrated how I would use his testing protocols to direct my 2 second, stretch reflex principle of combining short myofascial manipulations with short stretches when applying therapy. Dr. Shawn Monahan, now the owner of Atlas PT in NYC, managed the Physiofitness clinic where I worked for 12 years and brought the movement assessments to the clinic, helping to provide faster results for patients, saving them time and expense.
His mantra concerning movement assessments was: “If you don’t test, you just guess.”
Secondly, the concept of operating with short stretches was greatly influenced by nationally-known sports kinesiologist, Aaron Mattes. His stretch reflex principle had proven to be extremely effective, especially when Mr. Mattes worked with the elderly, helping to improve their posture and walking abilities within a month of therapy.
Longer stretches tend to increase muscle tone and tighten in a protective response, which can be counterproductive. This understanding guided me to include short manipulation and stretches during my therapy sessions.
The idea of working with clients while they stand and move was also inspired by my advanced training in myofascial massage and Rolfing, where the motto is: “Gravity is the therapist.”
I’ve been fortunate to learn from various experts in the field, including Dr. Willibald Nagler, Physiatrist-In-Chief of the NY Hospital Rehabilitation Department, who emphasized the importance of prescription exercises for improving functional movements.
Over the years, my approach has evolved, synthesizing lessons from each of these influential mentors to create a comprehensive, effective, and clinically-tested therapy plan that educates clients to take control of their movement health.