Strain Counterstrain

Strain Counterstrain is a gentle manual therapy technique that uses precise positioning to release tension and restore balance in the body’s musculoskeletal system. Instead of applying direct pressure into restricted or painful tissues, the therapist positions the body in a way that eases strain on specific tender points. This allows the nervous system to relax protective muscle guarding and helps chronically tight or irritated tissues return to a more functional resting state.

During treatment, the therapist identifies tender or reactive points and then guides the patient into a comfortable position that shortens the involved muscle or tissue. Holding this position for a brief period softens the area, reduces discomfort and improves mobility. Because it works with the body’s reflexive responses, Strain Counterstrain is especially helpful for patients who are sensitive to deeper manual therapy or who have persistent pain patterns that do not respond well to traditional stretching or strengthening alone.

This approach can be effective for acute or chronic pain, muscle tension, joint restrictions, postural imbalances and nervous system irritation and it integrates well with other hands-on therapies and movement-based rehabilitation.