Need a Little Sore Muscle Relief? 3 Ways to ‘Ahhhh…’

3 Ways to Sore Muscle Relief: The MELT Method

The MELT Method by Sue Hitzmann is comprised of an instructional book, a foam roller and a variety of small balls. MELT stands for Myofascial Energetic Length Technique, and, basically, the book — in addition to giving lots of information on understanding different types of discomfort and where it comes from — shows and tells you how to use those tools to provide release (and pain relief) throughout your connective tissue system.

We’re not just talking about learning how to roll out the big muscles and common adhesion spots (IT band, I’m looking at you) — Hitzmann delves into how to work with every part of your body, quite literally from the top of your head to the tip of your toe. Her background as a fitness instructor and presenter as well as her experience with hands-on bodywork gives her a true understanding of the body, including how seemingly small areas of pain can create larger problems.

While getting your connective tissue in shape might not change your tummy into a six-pack, as someone who’s struggled with TMJ and plantar fasciitis, I can attest that it can change your life. Much of what the book outlines is along the lines of what my physical and massage therapists do — but you get to do it yourself at home!