Active Isolated Stretching & Strengthening (AIS) is a corrective system that aims to bring the body back into balance through dynamic, assisted stretching and strengthening exercises. This method focuses on improving flexibility, joint mobility, and restoring tissue quality. In this article, we will explore the science behind the AIS method and how it can be beneficial for individuals suffering from tennis elbow.
Contact Performance Care Stretch Clinic for a personal consultation about how AIS can help you.
Understanding the Science of AIS
The AIS technique involves actively moving into a range of motion and holding the position for no longer than two seconds. This dynamic stretching approach has been proven to be highly effective in improving flexibility. By keeping the hold time short, the protective stretch reflex is prevented from kicking in, allowing for deeper ranges of motion without causing trauma to the soft tissues. Additionally, AIS utilizes the concept of reciprocal inhibition to enhance joint range of motion and flexibility. As you stretch your muscles, the method simultaneously strengthens them, leading to improved muscle recruitment and joint stabilization.
Benefits of AIS for Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition characterized by pain and inflammation in the outer part of the elbow. While traditional treatment methods may involve rest, medication, and physical therapy, AIS offers several unique benefits for individuals with tennis elbow:
Reducing Tightness and Pain
AIS helps to alleviate tightness and pain in the muscles and tendons surrounding the affected area. The dynamic stretching movements target specific muscle groups, promoting increased blood flow and oxygenation to the tissues. This can help to reduce inflammation and relieve discomfort associated with tennis elbow.
Improving Mobility and Strength
By actively engaging the muscles during stretching, AIS not only improves flexibility but also enhances mobility and strength. The method focuses on lengthening and strengthening the muscles in a controlled manner, which can lead to improved overall joint function and range of motion.
Restoring Damaged Tissue and Function
Tennis elbow can cause damage to the tendons and tissues in the elbow area while the cause is located in the muscle belly and needs to be corrected to alleviate the pain in the elbow. AIS promotes the restoration of damaged tissue and function by facilitating the flow of nutrients and oxygen to the affected area. The combination of dynamic stretching and strengthening exercises helps to improve tissue quality and accelerate the healing process.
Releasing Tightness in Fascia
Fascia is a connective tissue that surrounds and supports the muscles and organs in our body. In individuals with tennis elbow, the fascia in the affected area may become tight and restricted due to a build up of scar tissue called fibrinogen. Active Release Technique and Active Isolated Stretching can help release this tightness in the fascia, promoting better movement and reducing discomfort.
Unlocking Tightness in Joints
Tennis elbow can affect the mobility and flexibility of the elbow joint. AIS targets the muscles and tendons surrounding the joint, promoting increased circulation and flexibility. By unlocking tightness in the joints, AIS can help individuals with tennis elbow regain a better range of motion and function.
Improving the Natural Range of Motion
AIS is designed to improve flexibility and joint mobility, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with tennis elbow. By actively engaging the muscles and stretching them in a controlled manner, AIS helps to restore and enhance the natural range of motion in the affected area.
Contact us to find out how Active Isolated Stretching can help you
Active Isolated Stretching & Strengthening (AIS) is a highly effective method for improving flexibility, joint mobility, and tissue quality. When it comes to tennis elbow, AIS offers unique benefits such as reducing tightness and pain, improving mobility and strength, restoring damaged tissue and function, releasing tightness in fascia, unlocking tightness in joints, and improving the natural range of motion. If you are suffering from tennis elbow, consider incorporating AIS into your treatment plan to experience the positive effects of this dynamic stretching technique.
Do you have any questions about flexibility or AIS? Feel free to send me a message, and your question may be featured in one of our future blog posts.
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