Wong CK. Strain counterstrain: Current concepts and clinical evidence. Man Ther. 2012; 17: 2-8.
This article discusses the evidence examining proposed physiologic mechanisms and clinical effects of the strain counterstrain technique. Strain counterstrain involves identifying trigger points within muscles and uses passive positioning to indirectly release muscle tension. Strain counterstrain is the fourth most commonly used osteopathic manipulative technique. Several studies investigating strain counterstrain report decreased pain or tenderness following treatment.