When it comes to exercise rehab and strength and conditioning we must consider what type of approach we will take with regards to an isolated approach or integrated approach. In the video below you will see osteopath Heath Williams of Principle Four Osteopathy performing an isolated movement and then an integrated movement. An isolated approach typically focuses on a specific region, joint and movement, often in a single plane of direction i.e. as per the first movement in the video which is a standing isolated lateral raise. An integrated exercise looks to incorporate the body (kinetic chain) and usually involves multiple regions, joints and possibly planes of movement i.e. the second movement that involves a lateral step integrated with a open arc (laterally) across the frontal plane as well as incorporating the transverse plane of movement.

So which one should you choose and why? I guess it depends on what the goal is. If someone is needing to specifically focus effort on a single region/joint and in one plane of movement, then go the isolated approach. You are likely to be able to focus on developing endurance and then strength hypertrophy of those muscles that perform that particular movement. An integrated approach looks to share the effort across the whole body (kinetic chain) and will allow you to develop coordination, endurance, strength, power across the body in the particular movement selected. You are more likely to be able to handle a heavier weight (load) in integrated approach compared to isolated. The integrated also requires one to coordinate the movement through the body which makes it more complex for the person to perform it. So I guess if your goal is train the body, train movements and not muscles, train coordination and control, then go the integrated approach everyday of the week. If the goal is to focus purely on muscle hypertrophy, then go the isolated approach every day of the week.

This blog post was written by osteopath Heath Williams of Principle Four Osteopathy. Principle Four Osteopathy is located on Level 4 at 178 Collins St Melbourne CBD 3000. All of our osteopaths have an interest in exercise rehab and strength and conditioning. If you are keen on incorporating active approaches into the management of your complaint, then please book into see one our team. Appointments can be made by calling 0396709290 or booking online.