The Bad Ragaz Ring Method

Merav Hadar-Frumer*

 

The Bad Ragaz Ring Method is used for strengthening muscles, increasing range of motion, and improving coordination.  The method is based upon the principles of PNF and aided by the fluid mechanics.  The name is derived from a city in Switzerland, and "ring" refers to the round buoys used during the treatment.

PNF - Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation:

The method aids and enhances responses of the neuromuscular mechanism by stimulating the proprioreceptors. PNF is an integrative and positive method that encourages use of the patient's physical and psychological abilities. The objective of the treatment is to help the patient attain maximum function.  The method accelerates neuromuscular responses and is based upon knowledge attained in the fields of anatomy and development.

Characteristics of work in PNF:

• Using patterns of motion: the techniques are based upon patterns of motion that combine several muscles in order to perform a specific action  

• Using all senses to attain an active response

• Using all components of the muscle for action – utilization of the therapist's knowledge of anatomy

• Cortical action - voluntary activity of the patient.

• Working according to the principles of motor learning and development

• Using neurophysiological principles of the body such as over flow, after discharge, and excitation

The Bad Ragaz Ring Method (BRRM)

The principles of work in BRRM are similar to those of PNF.  The main difference is the aquatic environment and its characteristics – hydrostatic pressure, buoyancy, the metacentric effect, floating in motion – turbulent glide, viscosity and density, and inertia.

This method of therapy requires cooperation on the part of the patient (on the level of understanding instructions and willingness to follow them), basic Mental Adaptation of the patient, and the existence of muscle activity (as measured by MMS).

Treatment Objectives: As in PNF, therapy using BRRM enhances the patient's abilities of strength, muscle endurance, coordination, range of motion, weight-bearing, and relaxation.  The technique helps patients progress towards functional objectives while improving measures in the areas of body functions and structures according to the ICF (International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health).

 

 

* Merav Hadar-Frumer, HT, MScPT, Senior Hydrotherapist, Senior Lecturer in Hydrotherapy, Halliwick, Bad Ragaz, and Ai Chi