My Pain University Pro

Professional Training & Resource Hub

Product Range

MuscleCare’s product range comprises three unique formulations—Cold Gel, Ointment, and Massage Lotion. Each of the products have some features in common:

  • A Natural, Root-Cause, Sub-Topical Pain Relief
  • Powered by MyoDrive, a patented, transdermal system that delivers magnesium – the body’s natural relaxant to ‘locked and or disorganized muscle fibers’, with supportive components (MSM, glucosamine, chondroitin, magnesium).
  • Perfect for use with manual therapy, instrument assisted soft tissue care, shockwave, IFC, US, acupuncture, theragun, CBD, Aromatherapy

MuscleCare Extra Strength Cold Gel

MuscleCare Extra Strength Roll on (retail) and Cold Gel(back bar or in clinic) – 16 ingredients

Main Benefits

  • Instant cooling sensation (menthol, camphor) helps relieve acute muscle and joint pain. Allows the Chiropractic doctor to calm an acute, inflammed and or spastic area before further treatment, adjusting or other modality.
  • Musclecare reduces the effort and time to achieve optimal tissue relaxation by 80% plus, thus helping to reduce DC burnout.
  • MyoDrive, a patented delivery system to optimize transdermal delivery.
  • Fast absorption, long‑lasting relief.
  • Ideal for post‑treatment use—cooling helps calm inflammation, tension and soothe soreness immediately after soft tissue therapy.
  • Great as a retail item (roll-on version) for clients seeking quick at‑home or on the go relief.

Additional DC and PT Notes

  • Perfect for use with IFC, US, and acute relief pre-treatment

Ingredients

  • Main: Magnesium (Chloride), delivered by MyoDrive
  • 2 active ingredients: Camphor 4% and Menthol 10%
  • 16 essential ingredients, including Magnesium Chloride, Boswellia Serrata, Dimethyl Sulfone (MSM), Glucosamine Sulfate, Chondroitin Sulfate, Menthol (10%), Camphor (4%), Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Thymol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice.

MuscleCare Maximum-Strength Ointment- 21 ingredients

Main Features

  • MyoDrive, a patented delivery system to optimize transdermal delivery
  • Provides longer-lasting, deeper relief—suitable for chronic or long term ( over three months) pain.
  • Best used during or after deeper tissue or chronic-pain-focused soft tissue therapy sessions, to help maintain muscle relaxation, reduce tissue bogginess and provide continuous relief.
  • Works synergistically with soft tissue therapy techniques aimed at enhancing circulation.
  • Excellent to recommend as a retail product for clients facing recurring, long‑term discomfort.

Additional DC and PT Notes:  

  • Perfect for use with Shockwave,tool assisted use with graston or narson, IFC, cupping and acupuncture

Ingredients

  • Main: Magnesium (Chloride), delivered by MyoDrive
  • 2 active ingredients: Camphor 4% and Menthol 4%
  • 21 essential ingredients, including Magnesium Chloride, Boswellia Serrata Dimethyl Sulfone (MSM), Glucosamine Sulfate KCl, Chondroitin Sulfate, Camphor (4%), Menthol (4%), Vitis Vinifera (Grape Seed) Oil, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Thymol, Sea Cucumber Extract, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice

MuscleCare Massage Lotion -24 ingredients

Main Features

  • One of the best skin moisturizing and glide combinations on the market
  • Oil‑free formulation with superior glide and no greasy residue
  • MyoDrive, a patented delivery system to optimize transdermal delivery
  • Magnesium (relaxes muscles), with bioavailable aloe vera, safflower oleosomes, and mins (A, B3, B5, C, E (nourishes skin)
  • Ideal as a primary soft tissue therapy medium—excellent glide, absorption, and reusability without residue. Created for the most superior therapeutic benefits, excellent in conjunction with shockwave, IFC, instrument assisted care, acupuncture.
  • Perfect for sports massage or therapeutic work targeting tension release, while also offering skin care benefits.

Additional DC and PT Notes

  • Created for the most superior therapeutic benefits, excellent in conjunction with shockwave, IFC, instrument assisted care, acupuncture.

Ingredients

  • Main: Magnesium (Chloride), delivered by MyoDrive
  • 24 essential ingredients, including Magnesium (Chloride), Organic Aloe, Hyaluronic Acid, Creatine, Oleosomes (Safflower-derived), Vitamin A, Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide), Vitamin C, Vitamin E, MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane), Glucosamine, Chondroitin, Boswellia, Eucalyptus, Safflower Oil, Aloe Vera Leaf Juice

Pump Usage Guidelines

These pump quantities reflect real-world usage.

Product Purpose DC Use Approx. Cost to clinic
Massage Lotion Base layer for full-area work 2–4 pumps $0.36–$0.72
Ointment Focused treatment on trouble spots Up to 2 pumps $0.32
Cold Gel Cooling effect, post-session focus Up to 2 pumps $0.28

Comparison to BioFreeze

MuscleCare outperforms Biofreeze in two critical ways: it’s clinically proven to deliver greater pain relief, and it uses a cleaner, safer formulation — key reasons why major chains have chosen to make the switch.

More Effective in pain relief In a head-to-head, peer-reviewed published clinical study, MuscleCare was found to bring significantly greater reductions in pain sensitivity compared to Biofreeze, as measured by increased pain pressure threshold —via pressure algometer- a validated indicator of deeper soft-tissue relief. https://getmusclecare.com/backed-by-clinical-research/

Cleaner Formulation

MuscleCare is free of parabens, dyes, and harsh chemicals commonly found in other products. We understand the concerns surrounding ingredients that are in Biofreeze – to name a few:

  • FD&C Yellow #5 – potential to be cancerous
  • Carbomer – Negative side effects may include skin irritation such as redness, itching, or swelling
  • FD&C Blue #1 – potential to cause allergic reactions, including skin rashes, hives, or nasal congestion
  • Others, which may lead to adverse reactions and long-term health risks.

Protocols

‘In-clinic’ protocols are below for DC’s, PT’s and LMTs.

General rule of thumb is: Massage Lotion first, Maximum strength ointment second and if there is residual bogginess/ inflammation in the tissues use the cold gel, with one pass to cover the tissue. Manual therapy is not necessary in most cases. If the tissues feel clear and the patient is symptom free after the ointment then cold gel is not needed. If the DC chooses soft tissue therapy with the cold gel exfoliation may occur. We recommend soft tissue or instrument assisted techniques with the cold gel in acute planter fasciitis, or other acu1te situations.

There is NO hard a one fast rule, any of the following 3 steps can be used alone or in tandem. should you wish (or the patient not require) any cold gel this is your clinical decision, or should the patient have significant muscle tension throughout the entire back, then combining massage lotion with maximum strength ointment may be indicated.

Step 1

Use MuscleCare Massage Lotion to prepare the superficial and middle layer tissues Identify the location of the most contracted muscles.

MuscleCare Massage

  • Prepare the MuscleCare Massage Lotion by dispensing 2-4 pumps. Rub hands together to create friction and warm the lotion. Use more if required for larger surface areas or when more hair is evident.
  • Use effleurage and friction strokes to begin work, Identify the most contracted muscles; this is where the MuscleCare Ointment will be focused in step 2. It is recommended to blend the ointment into the Massage Lotion to continue, DO NOT wash hands or wipe off the patient.
  • Flush the areas with effleurage when complete.

Step 2

Use MuscleCare Pain Relieving Ointment to target the stiff tissues

MuscleCare Pain Relieving Ointment

  • Dispense 1-2 pump of MuscleCare Ointment and rub hands together to create friction and warmth.
  • Apply MuscleCare Ointment on specific areas of concern from previous palpation
  • Provide 3-4 minutes of focused, controlled soft tissue therapy until completely absorbed. Or until the tissue has relaxed to palpation.
  • Dispense an additional ½ pump as needed to continue soft tissue work.

Step 3

Use MuscleCare Pain Relieving Cold Gel to target inflammation or acute pain

MuscleCare Pain Relieving Cold Gel

  • Dispense 1-2 pump of MuscleCare Cold Gel and apply liberally to the specific area of concern. Absorption takes place in 30-45 seconds.
  • Do not continue working the area after applying the cold gel.
  • The visit is usually complete and home care is provided, recommend a roll on or ointment ( better for more chronic issues) for home care and remind them that the use guidelines is on every bottle in the QR code. Stretches and ergonomics are available at no cost in the same code, the stretch PDFs and videos align with the condition specific care.
  • Dispense an additional ½ pump as needed to continue soft tissue work.

MuscleCare’s SmartQR:

This QR code is on every product. Customers can scan the code to be directed to pain specific stretch, ergonomic, and protocols on product use.

What is MuscleCare

MuscleCare is a professional-grade, root-cause sub-topical, over-the-counter (OTC) topical pain relief product designed to enhance therapeutic soft tissue care sessions through targeted relief of tension, inflammation, and discomfort.

MuscleCare for DCs, LMTs, and PTs: Here's what matters most to you:

  • Fast-acting topical: Works within minutes to reduce discomfort or stiffness. ( both RCTS were conducted pre and post-test in 15-20 minutes that qualify fast acting).
  • Easy to apply: Light, smooth texture — doesn’t interfere with your flow/glide.
  • Saves your hands: Less strain on muscles in your hands as you soft tissue therapy, you suffer less and can work longer
  • Saves your eyes, reported less irritation than previous brands.
  • No or Mild scent: Massage Lotion is unscented, others have slight wintergreen aroma (less intense than BioFreeze as reported in many clinic testing sessions.
  • Natural ingredients: No harsh chemicals, safe for most skin types.Paraben free.
  • Patient retention tool: Shown to help improve member satisfaction and increase return visits.
  • Approved & compliant: FDA-registered, Health Canada–approved, and backed by 15 years of professional use. 2 million plus users.

MuscleCare for DCs, PTs, and LMTs

The Science Behind MuscleCare

MuscleCare has been clinically proven to offer significantly superior pain relief compared to major national brand pain brands such as biofreeze, IcyHot, and Placebo as well as equal to or slightly greater than NSAID creams Voltaren, while MuscleCare only contains natural ingredients.

In a randomized, double-blind study involving 120 participants, MuscleCare outperformed four top national brands and placebo, demonstrating faster and more effective pain relief. View Details

Additionally, a 2017 University of Toronto study led by Dr. Jack Goodman found that MuscleCare was equal to, and in some cases slightly more effective than, diclofenac-based creams such as Voltaren, suggesting its potential to become the preferred recommendation for acute pain among physicians. View Details

Beyond its effectiveness, MuscleCare has also been validated as safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, according to research conducted by Motherisk at Sick Children’s Hospital, University of Toronto, making it a rare over-the-counter option suitable for these sensitive populations. View Details

Mode of Action video

We recommend that this 60 second tool be sent to all of your clinic team members and to all of your patients, allowing them to have a visual understanding of the innovation you have brought to their care.

This short training video explains the science behind MuscleCare’s effectiveness in reducing muscle pain, inflammation and tension. It walks you through MyoDrive, a patented transdermal delivery system that helps key ingredients penetrate the skin deeper to elicit their effect sub-topically. Dr. Urquart ( molecular biologist) explains that when muscle fibers are locked due to injury or insult, pain signals are excited to the brain, where by relaxing muscles you improve local circulation and help flush out metabolic waste that contributes to inflammation thus causing pain. Using clear visuals, the video shows step-by-step how MuscleCare doesn’t merely rely on cooling or heating, masking the symptoms, but is designed to target the root causes of discomfort. — making it a powerful tool you can integrate into client care to enhance soft tissue therapy outcomes and provide lasting relief.

Application and MyoDrive™ Absorption

Combination of natural, nourishing ingredients enhances dermal penetration of actives that can move efficiently into underlying muscle tissue rather than remaining on the skin surface.

Takeaway: This means as you rub in MuscleCare, MyoDrive’s skin penetration ingredients are aiding Magnesium to unlock muscle fibers, the source of our pain and making the soft tissue therapy less physical effort for the thus designed to reduce burn out.

Science: MuscleCare uses a patented MyoDrive™ delivery system, the unique

Physiological Action​

Science: Once absorbed, the relaxation of muscles increases local circulation and reduces inflammation. The animation shows improved oxygen flow and removal of metabolic waste by natural existing nutrient laden circulation.

Takeaway: This is why clients feel more than just a cooling/warming sensation—Magnesium, the key ingredient in MuscleCare, changes the muscle physiology.

Clinical Outcomes

Science: Peer-reviewed, published studies show MuscleCare offers significantly greater( pressure pain tolerance) pain relief than biofreeze, insignificantly greater than NSAIDs, while being 100% natural!

Takeaway: This is not a “surface-level rub”; it’s evidence-based relief that complements your manual therapy. This is a natural root cause sub-topical.

How to Talk about MuscleCare

Here are the 4 talking points for explaining the key points of MuscleCare to your clients

  • MuscleCare is the newest innovation in chiropractic manual therapy
  • It’s a natural, root-cause, sub-topical solution, clinically shown to reduce pain more than leading national brands. May reduce muscle tension, inflammation, and spasm in 60 seconds.
  • Aids in the prevention and recovery of everyday aches and pains.
  • Locked Muscle fibers relax by using magnesium, naturally present in the body. MyoDrive technology enables deep penetrating pain relief at the source of your pain, the locked and or damaged muscle fibers, which helps address the root cause of joint and muscle pain providing long-lasting relief all day.

Relaxation vs. Relief — It’s Not Either/Or​

MuscleCare is ideal for both relief and relaxation because it targets the underlying muscle tension that often causes discomfort, even in clients who come in simply to unwind. Many people experience stiffness or mild soreness they may not mention, and MuscleCare helps address that quickly and effectively. Therapists note Its fast-acting formula softens tissue, has an improved glide, and enhances the overall soft tissue experience without leaving behind a strong scent or residue. This makes it a practical and versatile tool for delivering both therapeutic results and a more relaxing session.

  • While many patients say they’re looking to relax, most are also carrying underlying tension or discomfort—especially in common areas like the low back, neck, or shoulders.
  • MuscleCare is designed to support both needs in one product. Therapists will feel It softens tight tissue, improves glide, and helps clients feel immediate relief, which naturally enhances their ability to relax.
  • DCs can confidently integrate MuscleCare into most sessions. It’s effective, fast-absorbing, and well-tolerated, though it should be avoided if a patient has a known sensitivity to wintergreen or topicals.

Dr Chris Oswald​

Key Facts:

  • Experienced Clinical Leader: With 36 years in practice, Dr. Chris founded and operates Canada’s largest multidisciplinary pain clinic, treating over 30,000 patients personally and overseeing more than 55,000 visits annually.
  • Innovator in Natural Pain Relief: He is the creator and CEO of MuscleCare, a clinically validated, natural, root-cause, sub-topical —designed to be safe for all demographics and proven more effective than leading brands.
  • Educator and Industry Influencer: Dr. Chris co-leads OFPT, a specialized certification for TMD care, authored a bestselling stretching book, consults with Fortune 500 companies and healthcare institutions across North America and speaks at international conferences on pain management and effective treatment modalities

Dr. Chris Oswald is a seasoned chiropractor with 37 years of clinical experience and the founder of Canada’s largest multidisciplinary pain clinic, The Centre for Fitness, Health and Performance and The Jaw centre. Over the course of his career, he personally treated more than 30,000 new patients, which gave him deep insight into the limitations and risks of conventional pain relief treatments. He recognized a major gap in the market: the need for a safe, effective, and side-effect-free solution that could be used across all age groups and conditions. This realization drove him to create MuscleCare, a natural, root-cause-focused sub-topical pain reliever designed to treat spasms, inflammation, and pain without relying on harsh chemicals or drugs. His Jaw centre, in Toronto, has an 800 dentist referral base responsible for 260 New Patients per month.

Determined to prove its effectiveness, Dr. Chris led MuscleCare through rigorous third-party clinical testing, including double-blind, randomized controlled studies. These studies showed that MuscleCare outperformed leading national pain relief brands, and was found to be slightly more effective than NSAID creams containing diclofenac, such as Voltaren. Further testing by the University of Toronto and approval by Sick Children’s Hospital validated its safety for even the most vulnerable users. Dr. Chris’s vision was to create a trusted, professional-grade solution that could transform the standard of pain relief in North America, making it both safer and more accessible for the millions suffering from musculoskeletal pain.

Sales / Retail Support Materials

All MuscleCare products have a QR code on the side of the packet. This code sends the user to our ‘My Pain University’, where they can find focused, pain-type stretches to use at home (with MuscleCare ideally, to maximize the impact) and maximize their rehabilitation.

Two products are available for retail:

Products Available: ( these items are not sold on Amazon or mass retail)

Maximum Strength 4oz Ointment; retail, $29.99-34.99

The deepest penetrating product – ideal for longer lasting or chronic issues, like arthritis, Fibromyalgia or past whiplash. Has a mild cooling sensation and wintergreen smell.

  • Designed for chronic pain
  • Deeper absorption
  • Increases blood flow
  • Timed release formula
  • Enhances repair of damaged tissues
  • Mild cooling sensation
  • Works in minutes, last hours or days

Extra Strength 3oz Roll-on; retail $29.99

The strongest all-natural, scientifically based, topical analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-spasmodic otc product available. combining menthol and camphor for immediate pain relief with magnesium, glucosamine, MSM, and chondroitin to relax muscle tension, improve circulation, and reset the muscle in its normal resting state.

  • Great for everyday use, at home, in the office, in a gym bag…
  • Designed for all types of pain,
  • Lasts for 6+ hours
  • Perfect for on-the-go people
  • No mess, easy application
  • Great for acute pain,

FAQs

Q1: What makes MuscleCare different from other topical pain relievers?

Answer: MuscleCare is the only all-natural, root-cause, sub-topical pain relief formula backed by clinical studies
and powered by a proprietary delivery system called MyoDrive™. Unlike most topical products (like
Biofreeze or Icy Hot) that work as counterirritants by masking pain with cold or heat, MuscleCare works
at the muscular level. It:

  • Delivers magnesium, the body’s natural muscle fiber relaxant within 30–60 seconds
  • The roll on has 16 ingredients, ointment 21 and Massage Lotion 24
  • Increase blood flow to flush out inflammatory chemicals and metabolic waste
  • Supported with highest quality supplements MSM, Boswellia, and Glucosamine

Answer: No, and this is a common misconception. While both are topicals used in therapy, they function very differently:

Feature Biofreeze MuscleCare
Action Surface-level cold therapy Deep-tissue muscle fiber release
Type Counterirritant Sub-topical root cause muscle /joint therapy- patented MyoDrive Technology
Duration Short-acting Lasts 6+ hours
Key Ingredients Menthol Magnesium, MSM, Glucosamine, 16 in total, etc.
Clinical Studies Zero clinical studies, minimal comparative data Outperformed Biofreeze in RCTs, two RCTS and Sick Children’s hospital study reporting safe to use in pregnancy pain
Use for all cohorts Not advised Clinically proven safe for all

MuscleCare is designed for therapeutic function, not just temporary sensory relief.

Answer: Magnesium is a critical mineral for muscle function—it helps regulate muscle contraction and relaxation, reduce nerve excitability, and ease muscle cramps and spasms. In MuscleCare, topically applied magnesium (delivered via MyoDrive™) penetrates to relax tense or locked muscles quickly, making your job easier and more effective. Magnesium works with ATP and blocks calcium channels allowing the release of the actin and  myosin cross bridges that maintained the tension, spasm or cramp.

Magnesium is one of the key reasons MuscleCare works so fast without needing heat, cold, or manual friction.

Answer: NO!  Not necessarily— we do recommend that the Massage Lotion is used first followed by the Ointment. The cold gel is not a must. If a patient doesn’t like cold or it is cold outside, avoid it. If there is still discomfort and or inflammation we recommend using the cold gel. Note, using them all together enhances results:

  • Cold Gel: Best for acute pain, and quick cool-down pre-treatment. Cooling helps settle sensitive tissue in seconds, and allows soft tissue  to be less painful. It is only to cover an area once and not for massaging in most cases..
  • Maximum Strength Ointment: Deeper penetration, chronic issues, trigger points, and structural work.
  • Massage Lotion: Unscented, nutrient-rich, ideal for full-body treatments, post-event recovery, and general muscle maintenance. Incorporates Myodrive for relaxation, inflammation reduction and discomfort relief. Always start with this and combine ointment as needed.

You can customize your approach based on the client’s condition and treatment goals. Many DCs  find value in having all three available.

Answer: Yes — and that’s a great clinical strategy.
 Start by applying the Cold Gel 1–3 times over a few minutes to reduce acute pain, irritation, or hypertonicity. Once the tissue has settled, follow with the Ointment for deeper muscle engagement and longer-lasting relief.

This combo lets you work more effectively with less resistance, particularly with new clients, post-injury recovery, or inflamed tissue.

Answer: Yes, that’s normal and harmless—and actually a sign that the skin is detoxifying and shedding dead cells. The Cold Gel contains natural actives and delivery agents that can gently exfoliate the skin during soft tissue care, especially in areas with dry skin or product buildup. This is why we suggest the cold gel be wiped with one pass over a painful area, allowed to absorb and then the client is sent home. The notion of massaging with cold gel is when a very acute state exists and you start with one pass, allow absorption and then another pump with gentle soft tissue techniques. 

You can reassure clients this is temporary, healthy, and non-irritating—and it won’t affect the effectiveness of the product.

Answer: You don’t need MuscleCare to be a great DC—but it can help you become an even more effective and efficient one, while helping your hands and arms feel less strain. This is why Dr Chris developed Musclecare to save his hands and thumbs;

Here’s why:

  • It accelerates muscle release so you use less effort
  • Enhances patient outcomes, especially with stubborn areas, a less painful experience
  • Allows you to extend your career by reducing repetitive strain
  • Gives your patients home care tools with retail options, helps them manage their issues between visits, means less strain on the DC.
  • Sets you apart as a therapist who blends hands-on skill with science-backed tools

You’re still the expert—but MuscleCare helps you do more, faster, and with better client satisfaction.

Answer: Yes — MuscleCare  roll on is fully compatible with RockTape and all kinesiology taping methods. Tape first and use roll on or cold gel on top of the tape for best therapeutic benefit.

In fact, it’s a perfect complement. Here’s how to integrate them effectively:

  • Before Taping:  do not use Musclecare.
  • After Taping: You can still apply MuscleCare  ointment around the tape edges or on adjacent areas to support the broader kinetic chain.
  • Use cold gel or roll on directly over the tape.

By magnesium unlocking muscle fibers, tissue function, circulation, and relaxation are improved. These conditions allow the neuromuscular feedback of RockTape to be even more effective. Together, MuscleCare and RockTape could create a synergistic treatment experience that supports longer-lasting relief, better posture, and faster recovery.

Answer: Yes — MuscleCare and CBD can safely be used together, and in many cases, they complement each other without conflict. Avoid CBD in pregnancy.

While both offer pain relief, they work through different mechanisms:

IngredientPrimary ActionNotes
MuscleCareUnlocks muscle fibers, which boosts circulation, and flushes inflammatory chemicalsFast-acting, mechanical and biochemical relief
CBDActs on the endocannabinoid system to reduce pain signaling and inflammationSlower onset, works neurologically. Masks symptoms, doesn’t aid in repair

How to use them together:

  • Sequential Use: Apply MuscleCare first to prep the muscle, then layer CBD over the  needed areas once absorbed.
  • Area-Specific: Use MuscleCare on trigger points, chronic zones, or active muscles, and CBD for diffuse soreness or recovery areas that remain.
  • Mixing in the same palm — can be done, Musclecare will facilitate absorption of the CBD product with Myodrive. We have not studied this combination other than in clinic where it has been safe and effective. Do not use CBD on children or in pregnancy.

Advanced Soft Tissue Guidelines by Dr. Chris

This section outlines key musculoskeletal pain contributors by region, with a focus on the most commonly affected muscles and the clinical impact of soft tissue therapy. For each area, evidence-based insights are provided to highlight how specific manual techniques—such as myofascial release, trigger point therapy, or transverse friction soft tissue therapy—can reduce pain, improve range of motion, and support functional recovery. Where applicable, supporting studies from randomized controlled trials are included to guide best practices and reinforce therapeutic decision-making.

Dr Chris’ Guidelines include training for maximizing your care in these areas:

Lower Back Pain​

Dr Chris suggests following this video for how best to provide soft tissue therapy to the Lower Back when addressing pain in the area.

Muscles Involved (main pain contributors)

  • Quadratus lumborum (QL) — lateral low-back from iliac crest to 12th rib/transverse processes.
  • Erector spinae (lumbar paraspinals) — long extensor columns along the lumbar spine.
  • Psoas and ilio-psoas are lumbar and hip flexors that connect the femur through the pelvis to the lumbar vertebra, as high as T12. Contracted in sitting these tissues cause significant compression to the lower back joints.

Soft tissue therapy Impact on Pain at these Muscles supported by scientific published studies.

Quadratus lumborum

  • Science: Integrated neuromuscular inhibition (includes ischemic compression/deep friction/positional release) targeted QL trigger points and produced greater pain/disability reduction than exercises alone.
  • Example Study (RCT): Effect of Integrated Neuromuscular Inhibition Technique on Trigger Points in Quadratus Lumborum in NSLBP View Details

Erector spinae (lumbar paraspinals)

  • Science: In the same trial, manual therapy directly addressing erector spinae trigger points improved pressure-pain thresholds and disability versus control.
    • Example Study (RCT): Effect of Integrated Neuromuscular Inhibition Technique… (includes Erector Spinae) View Details

Neck

Dr Chris suggests following this video for how best to address the Neck when addressing pain in the area.

Muscles Involved (main pain contributors)

Upper Trapezius

  • Location: Extends from the occiput and nuchal ligament to the clavicle and scapular spine.
  • Role in Pain: Very common site for myofascial trigger points; contributes to neck tension, headaches, and reduced cervical range of motion.
  • Sternocleidomastoid (SCM)/ Scalene
  • Location: Runs from the sternum and clavicle to the mastoid process.
  • Role in Pain: Often develops trigger points causing neck discomfort, referred pain, and postural strains (e.g., forward head posture).
  • Splenius Capitis and Cervicis
  • Location: Posterior neck muscles spanning from upper thoracic vertebrae to skull.
  • Role in Pain: Contribute to neck extension, rotation, and often tighten in stress or poor ergonomics, limiting mobility.

Soft tissue Impact on Pain at these Muscles

  • Upper Trapeziu
  • Evidence: A randomized controlled trial compared integrated neuromuscular inhibition technique (INIT) – including trigger point work, strain-counterstrain, ischemic compression, and possibly ice / soft tissue therapy — on active trapezius trigger points in individuals with mechanical neck pain.
  • Result: Significant improvements in pain, pain pressure threshold (PPT), range of motion, and neck disability index (NDI). View Details
  • Additional RCT (Sherman et al., 2009): Compared 10 sessions of therapeutic soft tissue therapy to a self-care book in chronic neck pain patients and found:
  • 39% vs 14% improvement on the Neck Disability Index favoring soft tissue therapy at 10 weeks (RR = 2.7)
View Details

Sternocleidomastoid (SCM) & Splenius Group/ SCM and Scalene tissues often are blended together anatomically;

  • Evidence: A randomized, single-blind clinical trial by Büyükturan et al. (2022) investigated the effects of SCM-specific soft tissue therapy and stretching on individuals with chronic neck pain.
  • Participants receiving SCM treatment showed significant improvement in Pain, Neck Disability Index (NDI), Range of Motion (especially rotation and lateral flexion) and Endurance, compared to a control group receiving standard physiotherapy only.
  • Büyükturan B, et al. Musculoskeletal Science and Practice. 2022 View Details

Shoulder

Dr Chris suggests following this video for how best to perform soft tissue therapy on the shoulder when addressing pain in the area

Muscles Involved (main pain contributors)

  • Supraspinatus
  • Location: Part of the rotator cuff, spanning from the scapula’s supraspinous fossa to the humeral head.
  • Role: Often implicated in impingement, tendinopathy, and general shoulder dysfunction.

Other muscles such as the upper trapezius, infraspinatus, deltoid, and biceps may be indirectly referenced based on myofascial trigger points in broader studies—but the focal RCT referenced below targets supraspinatus explicitly. An understanding of the brachial plexus anatomy and the manner with which these nerves pass through the scalene tissue force us to focus on the scalene tissues in soft tissue therapy.

Soft tissue Impact on Pain at these Muscles

Supraspinatus (Ischemic Compression of Trigger Points in Shoulder Muscles)

  • Single-blind RCT (Hains et al.) comparing ischemic compression of shoulder muscle MTrPs (including the supraspinatus) versus sham compression in patients with chronic non-traumatic shoulder pain.
  • Result: Significant reduction in pain and dysfunction measured by the DASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand) Index at 12 weeks.
  • Muscles Targeted: Includes supraspinatus, infraspinatus, deltoid, and biceps brachii — confirming direct relevance to the supraspinatus. View Details

Elbow

Dr Chris suggests following this video for how best to use soft tissue therapy on the Elbow when addressing pain in the area.

Extensor Carpi Radialis Brevis (ECRB)

  • Location: Originates at the lateral epicondyle of the humerus and inserts on the base of the third metacarpal—located on the lateral (outer) forearm
  • Role in Pain: Frequently implicated in lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow), as it’s involved in repetitive wrist extension and gripping tasks. The ECRB is cited as the most commonly affected tendon in this condition.

Brachioradialis

  • Location: Originates from the lateral supracondylar ridge of the humerus and inserts just above the radial styloid process on the radius—located on the lateral forearm running down to just above the wrist.
  • Role in Pain: Responsible for flexing the elbow, especially when the forearm is in a neutral position. Overuse from gripping can cause trigger points and pain in the brachioradialis.

Soft tissue Impact on Pain at these Muscles

Extensor Carpi Radialis Brevis (ECRB)

  • Deep Friction soft tissue therapy applied to the origin of the wrist extensor muscles (which includes ECRB) has been shown to significantly improve pain levels and wrist range of motion in lateral epicondylitis patients. View Details

Brachioradialis

  • Clinical Practice Insight: A randomized arm-to-arm comparison study demonstrated that soft tissue therapy (applied 3 hours after eccentric exercise) significantly reduced Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) specifically at the brachioradialis—the soft tissue therapy arm reported 20–40% lower peak soreness compared to the control arm. View Details

Advanced Clinical Pearls by Dr. Chris

Systemic Pain Area Clinical Pearls and Recommended Treatment Guidelines

Systemic Pain Area Treatment Reviews and Clinical Pearls

This section outlines key musculoskeletal pain contributors by region, with a focus on the most commonly affected muscles and the clinical impact of massage therapy. For each area, evidence-based insights are provided to highlight how specific manual techniques—such as myofascial release, trigger point therapy, or transverse friction massage—can reduce pain, improve range of motion, and support functional recovery. Where applicable, supporting studies from randomized controlled trials are included to guide best practices and reinforce therapeutic decision-making.

Feet and Knee

In this Knee and Foot Clinical Pearls video, Dr. Chris Oswald offers a comprehensive overview of how foot dysfunction, particularly overpronation, impacts the entire lower kinetic chain, from the arches to the knees, hips, and lower back. He emphasizes the importance of assessing footwear, foot structure, and soft tissue imbalances, while demonstrating how to integrate chiropractic adjustments, orthotic support, and targeted use of MuscleCare Maximum Strength Ointment and Roll-On for conditions like plantar fasciitis, sesamoiditis, Morton’s neuroma, shin splints, and patellar tracking issues. Dr. Oswald provides clinical insights into specific muscles and joint structures—including the navicular, calcaneus, tibia, popliteus, and patella—and explains manual techniques and treatment protocols aimed at reducing inflammation, improving alignment, and restoring functional movement. The session is designed to guide LMTs in delivering more effective, evidence-informed care using both manual therapy and topical support.

(We break down the our muscle assessment into both groups here, Feet and Knee)

Feet (plantar heel/forefoot)

Muscles Involved (main pain contributors)

  • Soleus — deep calf muscle beneath gastrocnemius; joins the Achilles tendon.
  • Flexor digitorum brevis (FDB) — intrinsic along the plantar mid-arch to toes 2–5.

Massage Impact on Pain at these Muscles

Soleus

  • Science: Manual pressure release/myofascial techniques applied to soleus trigger points significantly reduced pain ratings and improved ankle dorsiflexion immediately or over short courses.
  • Example Study (randomized trial): Myofascial Release vs Pressure Release on Pain and Ankle ROM in Adults with Soleus Myofascial Trigger Points View Details

Flexor digitorum brevis

    • Science: Transverse friction massage of the FDB (named in protocol) produced clinically meaningful improvements on the Foot Function Index (pain/function) in plantar fasciitis.
    • Example Study (RCT): Effectiveness of Transverse Friction Massage of Flexor Digitorum Brevis and Calf Muscle Stretching in Plantar Fasciitis View Details

Knee (PFPS/ITB-related/OA)

Muscles Involved (main pain contributors)

  • Quadriceps (anterior thigh) — knee extensor group stabilizing patella.

Massage Impact on Pain at these Muscles

Quadriceps

  • Science: A structured quadriceps self-massage program produced significant WOMAC pain reductions and functional gains in knee OA versus wait-list control. (The protocol explicitly states massage applied to the quadriceps muscle.)
  • Example Study (RCT): The Effects of a Self-Massage Program on Osteoarthritis of the Knee View Details

Forearm / Carpal Tunnel–type Symptoms

In this Clinical Pearl video, Dr. Chris Oswald, founder of MuscleCare and a chiropractor with 37 years of experience, shares expert insight into treating forearm, wrist, and hand problems — including carpal tunnel syndrome. He explains how these issues are often rooted in tight forearm muscles, poor gliding surfaces, and fascial adhesions. Dr. Oswald demonstrates a practical, clinic-ready approach using MuscleCare topicals with manual techniques, showing how to assess, treat, and restore mobility and nerve function. He also covers how to combine MuscleCare with tools like ultrasound and shockwave therapy to maximize penetration and effectiveness, all while keeping ingredients clean, therapeutic, and natural.

Muscles Involved (main pain contributors)

  • Pronator teres — proximal anterior forearm; median nerve can be compressed beneath it.

Massage Impact on Pain at this Muscle

Pronator teres

  • Science: Ischemic compression delivered along the median-nerve pathway including the pronator teres reduced CTS pain and improved function versus control in a randomized trial
  • Example Study (RCT): Ischemic Compression Therapy for Chronic Carpal Tunnel Syndrome View Details

Lower Back Pain (nonspecific mechanical LBP)

In this Low Back Pain Clinical Pearls video, Dr. Chris Oswald presents a concise, evidence-informed approach to assessing and treating mechanical low back pain by addressing segmental restrictions, pelvic instability, and soft tissue dysfunction in muscles like the QL, psoas, and glute medius. He demonstrates how to integrate chiropractic adjustments, neuromuscular activation, and manual therapy with the targeted use of MuscleCare Maximum Strength Ointment and Roll-On to accelerate tissue release, reduce therapist effort, and extend pain relief. The ointment is used pre-treatment to relax tissue and improve adjustment outcomes, while the Roll-On supports post-treatment recovery and home care. Dr. Oswald emphasizes MuscleCare’s ability to treat the root cause of pain—muscle tension and inflammation—rather than masking symptoms, highlighting its clinically proven efficacy over BioFreeze, Icy Hot, and Voltaren, and its safety for all patients, including those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Muscles Involved (main pain contributors)

  • Quadratus lumborum (QL) — lateral low-back from iliac crest to 12th rib/transverse processes.
  • Erector spinae (lumbar paraspinals) — long extensor columns along the lumbar spine.

Massage Impact on Pain at these Muscles

Quadratus lumborum

  • Science: Integrated neuromuscular inhibition (includes ischemic compression/deep friction/positional release) targeted QL trigger points and produced greater pain/disability reduction than exercises alone.
  • Example Study (RCT): Effect of Integrated Neuromuscular Inhibition Technique on Trigger Points in Quadratus Lumborum in NSLBP. View Details

Erector spinae (lumbar paraspinals)

  • Science: In the same trial, manual therapy directly addressing erector spinae trigger points improved pressure-pain thresholds and disability versus control.
  • Example Study (RCT): Effect of Integrated Neuromuscular Inhibition Technique… (includes Erector Spinae) View Details

Upper Cervical (headache/neck pain region)

In this Upper Cervical Syndrome Clinical Pearls video, Dr. Chris Oswald explores the complex relationship between forward head posture, chronic neck tension, and symptoms like headaches, jaw pain, and insomnia. Drawing on 37 years of experience, he explains how modern postural habits—particularly tech-induced anterior head carriage—create excessive contraction in posterior suboccipital tissues and anterior structures like the SCMs and scalenes, leading to mechanical dysfunction. While upper cervical adjustments (C1/C2) remain effective, Dr. Oswald emphasizes they are insufficient alone. He recommends first releasing soft tissue tension using MuscleCare Maximum Strength Ointment to relax 60–70% of contraction before adjusting, improving precision and outcomes. For patients with longstanding poor ergonomics, he advises sending them home with the retail ointment and educating them to scan the QR code for home stretching protocols. For more superficial or mid-level issues, especially in workplace settings, the Roll-On is ideal for mess-free application to both the front and back of the neck. Combining anterior and posterior adjustments with targeted soft tissue work and MuscleCare ensures optimal realignment, symptom relief, and long-term patient empowerment.

Muscles Involved (main pain contributors)

  • Suboccipitals — Short extensors/rotators at the C0–C2 junction.
  • Upper trapezius — Occiput/nuchal line to acromion/scapula (cervico-thoracic junction).

Massage Impact on Pain at these Muscles

Suboccipitals

  • Science: Suboccipital muscle inhibition (manual soft-tissue release named for the suboccipital muscles) reduced pain and headache impact in chronic tension-type headache versus standard care.
  • Example Study (RCT): Effectiveness of Suboccipital Muscle Inhibition Combined with
  • Interferential Current in CTTH.

Upper trapezius

  • Science: Trigger-point compression/ischemic pressure of the upper trapezius significantly reduced neck/shoulder pain in RCTs (muscle explicitly named).
  • Example Study (RCT): Dry Needling vs Trigger-Point Compression of the Upper Trapezius (compression arm shows pain reduction) View Details

Upper Thoracic (mid-back/scapular region)

In this Upper Thoracic Syndrome Clinical Pearls video, Dr. Chris Oswald addresses the widespread postural strain caused by chronic forward head positioning and tech use, particularly at the C7–T1–T2 junction. He explains how sustained cervical flexion accelerates disc degeneration and activates the sympathetic nervous system at the T1 level, contributing to anxiety, pain, and numbness. Dr. Oswald emphasizes the importance of correcting posture through anterior thoracic adjustments and soft tissue release, especially of the SCMs, scalenes, trapezius, and rhomboids. To enhance treatment, he recommends using MuscleCare Maximum Strength Ointment to release adhesions pre-adjustment, and Cold Gel for acute presentations due to its rapid MyoDrive delivery and muscle relaxation in under 30 seconds. He also highlights the importance of sending patients home with MuscleCare retail products, guiding them to the QR code on every bottle that offers free access to condition-specific stretches and protocols—reducing the need for repeated in-office education. Chronic cases benefit from the ointment applied morning and night, while the Roll-On is ideal for ongoing maintenance and occupational use. Dr. Oswald stresses that this integrated approach not only enhances outcomes but keeps patients functioning between visits, reducing acute flare-ups and clinic inefficiencies.

Muscles Involved (main pain contributors)

  • Rhomboid major — T2–T5 spinous processes to medial scapular border

Massage Impact on Pain at this Muscle

Rhomboid major

  • Science: Ischemic pressure applied to rhomboid trigger points reduced pain and disability versus post-isometric relaxation or control in randomized trials.
  • Example Study (RCT): Ischemic Pressure vs Post-Isometric Relaxation for Rhomboid Latent Myofascial Trigger Points View Details