A strike can be complete technique in itself, but can also be used to briefly break an opponent's balance or resolve. A painful blow to a vulnerable area can open the way for a more damaging technique, such as a throw or joint lock. Even if the blow does not land, the opponent can be distracted, and may instinctively contort their body (e.g., jerking their head back from a face strike) in such a way that they lose their balance or become disorientated.