Re-Afferentation Technique

When joints of the body loose motion due to trauma, stress, or degeneration the nerves associated with those joints fail to fire and the pathways become dysfunctional. Afferent nerve impulses to these structures are decreased and the sensory portion of the brain looses communication with the tissues. Lesions, (abnormal structure or function) of the joints allows fibrous tissue to infiltrate the joints and restrict the motion. These adhesions place limitations on mobility and this chronic hypo mobility causes atrophy of the muscles and cellular changes within the ligaments and tendons. The connective tissues surrounding the joints become the white fibrous type and tend to promote arthritic degenerative metamorphosis of the articulations.

Chronic pain due to inflammation further limits motion and the medical treatment is usually injections with pain killers and steroid anti-inflammatory drugs. This can some times relieve the pain and increase the motion; however, the effect is sometimes only temporary and may be associated with unwanted side effects. Repeated steroid use can cause tissue changes and can down regulated the secretions of the adrenal glands which produce the bodies own natural corticosteroids. Frequently, the reduction of pain is interpreted by the patient as a cure and they are not aware of minimal restrictions in movement which can progress slowly over time. Re-afferentation techniques can and should be employed to re-establish full range of motion of the joints and restore flexibility to the tendons and ligaments. This is accomplishes through a series of mobilizations combined with pressure and resistance procedures.

These applications are designed to break up adhesions, increase ranges of motion, and return the proprioceptive function of the joint receptor system. Reduction of metabolic toxins in the soft tissues and intracellular fluids helps to diminish pain and bilateral stretch techniques help to restore brain body communication and replacement of white fibrous tissue with more yellow elastic fibers. This change in cell structure within the tendons, ligaments and joint capsules takes place gradually over time with repeated applications of the technique. Stimulations of inactive nerve pathways help to produce the formation of new neural connection and promote increased blood flow and lymphatic circulation. Enhanced nutrient pathways and increased waste removal of metabolic materials helps to enhance healing.

The bursal tissue of the joints is encouraged to upgrade their production of synovial fluid which lubricates the joints and protects the articular cartilage from frictional wear and tear. Specific isometric exercises are employed to strengthen muscle and tendons, relieve joint restrictions, improve circulation and restore flexibility and pliability of the body. Craniopathic manipulation of the skull by a trained osteopath, chiropractor or craniosacral therapist can be greatly enhanced by the application of these procedures. Temporomandibular joint function can also be benefited by the re-afferentation mobilization therapy.