MYOFASCIAL RELEASE





The John F. Barnes' Myofascial Release Approach is considered to be the ultimate mind/body therapy. Myofascial release (MFR) is a safe and effective hands-on technique that involves applying gentle sustained pressure into the myofascial connective tissue restrictions to eliminate pain and restore motion. This essential "time element" has to do with the viscous flow and the piezoelectric phenomenon: a low load (gentle pressure) applied slowly will allow a visco-elastic medium (fascia) to elongate.



WHAT IS FASCIA?





Fascia is tough connective tissue which spreads throughout the body in a three-dimensional web from head to foot without interruption. Trauma, posture, surgical procedures, or inflammation can create a binding down of fascia, resulting in excessive pressure on nerves, muscles, blood vessels, bones, and organs. These myofascial restrictions can produce tensile pressures of approx. 2,000 lbs per square inch on pain sensitive structures. Because these restrictions do not show up in many of the standard tests (Xrays, MRI's, CAT scans, EMG's, etc.), it is thought that many people suffering with pain and/or lack of motion may be having fascial problems, but most go undiagnosed.



CONDITIONS TREATED





MFR is effective in treating:

  • Back Pain
  • Neck Pain
  • Joint Pain
  • Sciatica
  • Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
  • Tennis Elbow
  • Carpal Tunnel
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Restriction of Motion
  • Spasms/Spasticity
  • Headache
  • TMJ
  • Head Trauma
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Myofascial Pain
  • Chronic Fatigue
  • Pelvic Pain
  • Painful Intercourse
  • Menstrual Problems
  • Incontinence


WHAT'S A TYPICAL
TREATMENT LIKE?





MFR allows me to look at each patient as a unique individual. One-on-one therapy sessions are hands-on treatments during which I use myofascial release techniques, therapeutic exercise, and movement therapy. I promote client independence through education in proper body mechanics and movement, self treatment instruction, enhancement of strength, improved flexibility, and postural and movement awareness.

Each session begins with a postural assessment and observation of fascial restrictions. I will ask what your current symptoms are and what changes you've noted (both positive and negative) since the last treatment. You might have your photo taken to document body posture.


MFR treatment uses a range of sustained pressures, from gentle to firm -- all without forcing any barrier. This inherently safe process facilitates the body's natural ability to "unwind," to release subconscious holding patterns, and thus reintegrate the body, nervous system, and mind. The result is significant change which is both measureable and functional.


Myofascial release treatment is performed directly on skin without oils, creams, or machinery. This enables the therapist to accurately detect fascial restrictions and apply the appropriate amount of sustained pressure to facilitate release of the fascia.



WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?





Since MFR is a hands-on technique, you are requested to bring appropriate clothing to facilitate this process. Women are asked to bring in a sport bra, bathing suit top, or tank top along with a loose fitting pair of shorts (not denim) or bathing suit bottom. Many women are at ease with being treated in their undergarments instead of changing clothing. Men are usually comfortable in just a pair of loose fitting shorts (not denim).

A NOTE ABOUT LOTIONS -- In order to release restrictions, it is important to not slide on the skin. Come for treatment with clean dry skin, free of any lotions or oil. This will allow treatment to be more effective.