Which statement best describes the difference between still technique and counterstrain?

• A. Still technique uses position of ease with gradual tissue relaxation; counterstrain uses tender point hold to reset muscle spindle activity.
• B. Still technique uses rapid joint mobilizations; counterstrain uses sustained fascial stretch.
• C. Still technique uses high-velocity thrust; counterstrain uses gradual tissue relaxation.
• D. They are identical.

Answer: (B)

The difference between these two techniques lies in how they interact with the tissues: Still technique is a dynamic, rapid mobilization of the joint and surrounding soft tissues to restore motion, while counterstrain is a passive, sustained hold in a position of comfort that gently stretches tissues to reset neural reflexes and reduce muscle hypertonicity.

So, still technique uses quick, rhythmic joint and tissue movements to overcome restrictions and freer motion, whereas counterstrain relies on placing the patient in a position of ease and maintaining a sustained stretch to lessen spindle activity and tone. This explains why the statement describing rapid joint mobilizations for Still technique and a sustained fascial stretch for counterstrain best captures their difference.