One of the unique mechanical properties of our human structure is the presence of a retinaculum (plural: retinacula) around many of the joints of the body. A retinaculum is a band or membrane that holds an organ or part in its place. It may also be defined as a thickening of the deep fascia in … Read more
The sacroiliac (SI) joint is one of the most biomechanically complex joints in the body. Yet there is actually very little movement in the joint because of its need for stability. The SI joints are tightly bound with a dense webbing of ligaments on both the anterior and posterior sides. The primary stabilizing ligaments are … Read more
Everyone learned about muscle spindles in their basic training, but they are such a fundamentally important part of the neurological system that reviewing them is worthwhile. During muscle contraction, the central nervous system (CNS) sends signals to make muscles contract. It is the muscle spindles that convey more specificity to the CNS, essentially providing more … Read more
Updated 4-25-24 The scapulohumeral rhythm is a critical component of shoulder mechanics, enabling the shoulder to have the greatest range of motion of any joint. The scapulohumeral rhythm is the coordinated movement between abduction at the glenohumeral joint and upward rotation at the scapulocostal (also called scapulohumeral) articulation. The scapulocostal articulation, while not an actual … Read more
Specialized sensory cells in the nervous system give the brain information about the outside world. Some of the most important receptors are sensitive to sensations such as heat, pain, or pressure. Another very important category of sensory receptors are the proprioceptors, which are specialized cells that give the brain information about movement and the body’s … Read more
Muscles have a primary role in creating and limiting movement in the body. They are also the major focus of our work in massage therapy, with many injuries caused by improper loads on the muscular system. There are key facets of analyzing a muscle’s mechanical load that are essential in both assessment and treatment strategies. … Read more
An exploration of torque and rotary motion in biomechanics and kinesiology, and how we apply these principles effectively in our practice. Torque is an important biomechanical concept, but also one of the most frequently misunderstood. Routinely I hear massage therapists talk about the adverse effects of torque on some soft-tissue structure. I can even remember … Read more
The piriformis muscle is one of the six deep rotators of the hip and lies deep to the gluteal muscles (Figure 1). Even though it is small, the muscle plays a vital role in hip mechanics. Figure 1 shows the piriformis muscle in relation to the surrounding pelvis. Note that the muscle attaches to the … Read more
The ankle complex provides a firm base of support for holding up and balancing the weight of the body. Yet, it also allows significant mobility. The ankle’s architecture must allow for adaptations in ground surface and propulsion of the lower extremity. It also functions to distribute high force loads. A good understanding of ankle structure … Read more
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