Many clients have recently asked what the difference is between hands-on, provider administered recovery and self-administered recovery. Let’s define the two.
Hands-on recovery is pinpoint and oriented towards not only finding the sensitive spots on a particular muscle but also to feel the fascial tension that may be interfering with an athlete’s function. Fascia is the spider-web-like connective tissue that binds muscle groups together.
Self-Recovery is defined as any type of recovery performed on your own and may be associated with a tool of some sort. This includes stretching, foam rolling, rolling out with a lacrosse ball, Theragun use, cold tub use, as well as usage of the NormaTec Boots before or after hitting the Turf.
The most important thing to understand is that both forms of recovery work synergistically. Recovery is a team effort. It is about the provider and the athlete working together towards a common goal, and the primary goal is always performance. Keeping your body primed for class is essential to avoid injuries.
On their own, hands-on recovery and self-recovery can only do so much. But when combined consistently, athletes have shown marked increase in muscle function, athletic performance, as well as injury prevention.
Whether you are trying to loosen up tight muscles, alleviate connective tissue adhesions, or improve your overall mobility, both hands-on recovery and self-recovery must be performed together. I specialize in hands-on recovery with supplemental work provided for clients to work on at home or after class.
Better recovery means better training at the House.
Yours in Health
Dr. Kam
CLICK HERE to book an Advanced Recovery session with Dr. Kamraan at Tone House NOMAD.