GTO Release

The GTO (Golgi Tendon Organ) release technique is a focused manual therapy method designed to decrease muscle hypertonicity and tension by stimulating the Golgi tendon organs (sensory receptors located at the musculotendinous junction). By applying sustained pressure or gentle stretching to tendons, this technique creates a reflex that promotes muscle relaxation and increases length.​​

Key Features

• Uses direct, sustained pressure, gentle pinching, or stretching at the tendon near the musculotendinous junction.​

• May involve pincer grasp, bowing, or approximation of muscle/tendon ends, held for 30–60 seconds or longer.​

• Sometimes combined with gentle isometric contraction and relaxation cycles (contract-relax).​

• Therapist monitors for release such as a “melting” or decrease in muscle tension.​

• Typically requires low to moderate pressure, avoiding pain and tissue irritation.​

Purposes and Benefits

• Promotes autogenic inhibition: the GTO responds to sustained tension, triggering reflexive muscle relaxation.​​

• Reduces muscle tightness and spasms, allowing for increased flexibility and improved motor control.​​

• Useful for releasing chronic hypertonicity in muscles resistant to conventional massage or stretching.​

• May help decrease pain and break dysfunctional neuromuscular patterns caused by stress, injury, or overuse.​

• When paired with other techniques, supports long-term tissue health and injury prevention.​​

Typical Use in Massage Therapy

• Applied to chronically tight areas (e.g., levator scapula, hamstrings, Achilles tendon, upper trapezius).​

• Used during tissue release or at the end of a massage session to support relaxation.​

• Can be part of myofascial release, neuromuscular therapy, or advanced sports massage protocols.​

• Suitable for clients with stubborn muscle tightness, trigger point pain, or postural tension. It is always adapted for comfort and safety.​​

• Not advised for acute injuries, recent trauma, or over fragile/irritated tendons; pressure should be gentle, and technique stopped if pain occurs