What soft tissue therapy is
Soft tissue means the muscles, tendons, ligaments and fascia — the connective wrapping around muscles — that hold the skeleton together and move it. Soft tissue therapy is hands-on work on those tissues: targeted pressure, stretching and techniques such as myofascial release.
At SYMETRx it is part of a chiropractic treatment plan, chosen for a reason the examination found. It is clinical care delivered by our team, and it is not a stand-alone service.
Why the muscles matter
A joint does not move on its own. When a joint is irritated, the muscles around it often tighten to protect it, and that tightness can keep the area sore after the original problem has calmed down. Working on both the joint and the soft tissue around it often makes more sense than treating either one alone.
Dr. Matt and his professional care team decide whether soft tissue work belongs in your plan after examining how the area moves.
Who we often see for it in Manatee County
- People recovering from a car accident. Neck and upper back muscles take a lot of the strain in a collision on US-41, Cortez Road or I-75.
- Hard workers. Construction, landscaping, marina and restaurant work load the same muscles day after day.
- Active retirees. Golf, pickleball and fishing trips are good for you and still leave shoulders and hips tight.
- Desk and screen time. Hours at a computer or on a phone tighten the neck and shoulders.
What a visit includes
We start with an examination: how the area moves, where it is tight or tender, and how the nerves are working. If soft tissue therapy fits, it is usually paired with chiropractic adjustments and corrective exercise you do at home. We explain each step in plain language, and you decide.
When it is not a chiropractic problem
This is the part most clinics leave out, and it matters more than anything else on this page.
Common questions
How is soft tissue therapy different from general muscle work?
It is hands-on work done as part of a chiropractic plan, aimed at a specific problem the examination found, and it is provided by our clinical team.
Does it hurt?
It can feel firm, and a tender spot may be uncomfortable for a moment. We adjust the pressure as we go, and you can ask us to ease off at any time.
How often would I need it?
That depends on what we find and how you respond. It is usually part of a short series of visits, with home exercises in between.
Is it covered by insurance?
It is often billed as part of chiropractic care. Coverage varies by plan, so call the office and we will check yours.
Soft tissue work usually supports another part of care. Joint care is covered in chiropractic adjustments, tightness on its own in muscle stiffness, and collision injuries in whiplash treatment. It all begins with an evaluation at our Bradenton chiropractic clinic on 6th Avenue East.
From our articles: Why Your Neck Aches by Four O’Clock and Why Your Shoulder Hurts the Day After Pickleball.
Next step
Ready when you are — three ways to start
Not everyone wants to pick up the phone, and you should not have to. Any of these reaches the same team at our Bradenton office.
Or have us call you
Tell us how to reach you and we will call to schedule your visit. No obligation, and we handle the insurance paperwork.
Prefer email? Write to info@symetrxchiro.com.