Medical flossing is a therapy used in musculoskeletal prevention and rehabilitation, where a special elastic band (floss) is wrapped around the affected muscles or joints. The area is then moved passively or with active muscle work while being compressed.
The goals of the treatment are:
- Pain relief
- Increasing the range of motion in joints
- Reducing swelling
- Improving circulation
- Facilitating faster regeneration
- Improving the condition of the fascia (connective tissue sheath)
How medical flossing works:
- Pain Relief: The placement of the floss stimulates receptors that block pain receptors, thereby alleviating pain or even eliminating it altogether.
- Sponge Effect: Due to the tight application and rapid unwrapping, there is a sudden increase in blood and lymph circulation, flushing out harmful substances from the treated area, thus improving oxygen and nutrient supply.
- Unblocking: Movement with the band affects the fascia, muscles, bones, and joints alike. Movement in a compressed state can release adhesions, aiding in increasing the range of motion of the affected joint.
The bands come in various sizes and strengths, always tailored to the individual’s needs, based on the size and condition of the area being treated. Flossing is used for acute and chronic pain, injuries, joint swelling, inflammations, partial ligament tears, post-surgery rehabilitation, and injury prevention.
However, in certain cases, medical flossing should not be used:
- Thrombosis
- Fracture
- Open wounds
- Skin lesions
- Varicose veins
- Blood clotting disorders
- Pregnancy
- Fever
- Tumorous diseases
Medical flossing, complemented by other manual therapies and active exercise, provides comprehensive treatment, resulting in more effective rehabilitation outcomes.
