Which inhibition technique decreases spasticity and tactile defensiveness and improves symmetry, tone, ROM, ambulation, alertness, and bowel movements?

• A. NMES
• B. Joint Approximations
• C. Trunk Rotation and Pelvic Positioning
• D. Massage and Myofascial Release

Answer: (D)

Inhibition techniques rely on calming, controlled sensory input to relax tense muscles and reduce sensory defensiveness. Massage and myofascial release provide slow, sustained touch and gentle release of fascia and connective tissue, which helps lower muscle spindle activity and improve tissue compliance. This direct soft-tissue relaxation reduces spasticity and diminishes tactile defensiveness, allowing the body to assume more symmetrical alignment. With less excessive tone, range of motion improves and movement becomes more efficient, supporting better ambulation. The calming, regulatory effect of this touch can also enhance alertness and even bowel function by promoting a calmer autonomic state. Other approaches focus on different mechanisms—NMES facilitates muscle contraction, joint approximations provide proprioceptive input for stability, and trunk/ pelvic positioning targets alignment through posture—without the same direct impact on soft-tissue relaxation and sensory modulation.