Aston-Patterning By John T. Lohr

Definition

Aston Patterning is a muscle manipulation system that attempts to re-educate muscle movement. It was developed by Judith Aston.
Description

Aston patterning is a comprehensive, integrated system of deep tissue release and neuromuscular re-education that takes into account the relationship between the body, mind, and spirit of the patient. A careful examination of the patient and his normal range of body movements is made. The patient is also examined for muscle tightness and structural (skeletal) formation. This gives the practitioner an overview of how the patient's body moves, the causes of any deviations from normal movement, and the causes of any pain the patient may be experiencing. Aston patterning can be used to address many kinds of neuromuscular pain. Aston patterning is frequently sought by patients for whom traditional muscle manipulation has proven ineffective, those with chronic pain, and by professionals such as athletes and dancers. The goal of Aston patterning is to produce long-term solutions to patient problems. Traditional manipulation techniques may produce only short-term relief. The focus on deep muscle training and on accommodating the patient's physical structure separates Aston pattering from other manipulative techniques. Long-term relief requires that muscles be retrained and, for this, the patient must maintain the new patterns of exercise, posture, and behavior after therapy has ended. Aston patterning is frequently used in combination with massage.

Preparation

Before therapy begins, the patient is questioned to discover the nature of any pains or discomfort, as well as other relevant information. The practitioner then observes the patient standing and moving, and notes patterns and relationships of alignment, dimensions, and movement of the body. The patient is then examined while on the massage table. Here, the practitioner feels for areas of muscle tone and tightness and tries to identify structural restrictions that will affect the outcome of muscle re-education efforts. The results of these examinations are used to customize a system of muscle re-education for the patient.
Aftercare

Patient education is essential to maintain muscle retraining. Patients are taught to be more self aware so that they can understand the source of their tension and movement patterns.

Key Terms

Neuromuscular
That which is related to both muscles and nerves, particularly nerves that affect muscles.

Further Reading For Your Information

Books
* Claire, Thomas. Body Work. New York: William Morrow and Company, 1995.
Organizations
* The Aston Training Center. P.O. Box 3568, Incline Village, NV 89450, (702) 831-8228.
Other
* Aston Patterning. http://members.aol.com/SVUmassage/Aston.html (19 June 1998).
* Bodywork. http://www.karinya.com/bodyw3.htm.

Click here to return to Aston Patterning Main Page

PLEASE NOTE: Natural-Earth.com does not necessarily endorse any of the treatments and therapies in the natural health, natural medicine and lifestyles directory. The material on this web site has been provided for your information and we urge you to be discriminating in making your choice of complementary or alternative therapy. We wish you Good Luck... and Good Health.