Recommended and Inexpensive Physical Therapy Solutions

Active people must always listen to warning signs given by their bodies.  Pains, sprains, and constant soreness might be a sign of over-training or improper technique when running or performing other training movements.

The importance of massage cannot be stressed enough for the general population and even more so for the athlete.  When muscles become very tight, movement is restricted, the body's natural balance is shifted, and other muscles begin to overcompensate.  This overcompensation can mean injury and degradation of cartilage, resulting in pain, and as mentioned long-term degradation and loss of performance.  Moreover, tight muscles cannot adequately flush out toxins which can lead to one becoming prone to allergies, seasonal colds and flu, and stress-related illnesses.  If one allows tightness in the muscles to continue, it can also lead to the fusing of said muscles and can lead to chronic conditions.  Have you ever seen an elderly person who is extremely hunched over or who has to make use of a walking cane for their serious imbalanced condition? That is many times the result of not attending to the body's pain. 

While it is true that a massage is not always a viable option owing to the cost and the need for another person, there does exist a couple of products that can help restore the body's natural alignment and balance.  Best of all, these products are very affordable and proven by millions of people.

The first of the products I am going to speak about is called the Elaine Petrone Method.  While deceptively simple in its approach to pain management and alignment, her system is remarkably effective and affordable.  Basically, her system involves the use of small rubber balls which are placed strategically and coupled with simple breathing techniques to encourage tight muscles to literally 'let go'.  This is of course, achieved with the help of gravity.  In pain or tight? Look into her method and you will be surprised at the results.  As a side note, I've also seen a few of her kits sold in stores such as Borders and Hastings throughout the country, but her site includes an online shop.

The second tool is just that: a tool and not necessarily a method but is still remarkably effective for massaging out knots and tight muscle tissue.  It is a foam roller and is available from the Core Performance Website among others.   It is perfect for self-massage and comes with an instructional DVD which is very helpful in letting you get the most out of your investment.

The price for Elaine Petrone's The Miracle Ball Method Book is under 18 dollars before shipping and the Foam Roller at the above website is under 25 dollars less shipping.  Best of all, they may encourage you to maintain a healthful routine which will impact all areas of your life.  Think more energy, more youthful appearance, and better outlook.