What is fascia?

Fascia is a layer of connective tissue that surrounds every muscle, bone, blood vessel, nerve, and organ in the body.  It is connected, head-to-toe, without interruption.  Every part in the body is connected to every other part by fascia.  These connections are like yarn in a sweater.  When one connection gets tight, it pulls on the rest of the sweater--the rest of the body.

Normal fascia is relaxed.  It stretches and moves easily.  An injury to your body, scars, and inflammation can cause the fascia to become tight.  Areas of tightness, called fascial restrictions, can increase pressure on other body parts.  This pressure can cause a wide range of symptoms including headaches, neck and back pain, decreased ability to move, and decreased flexibility and stability.

What is Myofascial Release?

Myofascial Release is a hands-on therapy that uses gentle pressure held over time on areas of tightness.  Myofascial Release frees these restrictions, decreasing pain and increasing movement.

How is Myofascial Release different from other forms of bodywork?

There are many different types and styles of Myofascial Release.  This handout focuses on the John F. Barnes (JFB) Myofascial Release technique.  JFB Myofascial Release is unique because pressure is held on areas of tightness for a longer length of time.  Continued gentle pressure lets tension in the tissue release when it is ready.  This is different from other forms of bodywork, such as trigger point therapy or myofascial physical therapy, where shorter periods of pressure are applied to areas of tight- ness.  Myofascial Release can be used along with other forms of bodywork to improve your symptoms.

What is a Myofascial Release session like?

Your Myofascial Release provider may start by looking at your posture as you stand to determine areas of tension.  S/he may also watch you walk.  You will then lie on the table.  Myofascial Release involves direct hand-to-skin contact.  Men can wear shorts or swim trunks, and women, shorts and a sports bra or a two-piece bathing suit.  Your therapist will generally approach your body slowly and gently.  S/he will use a gentle, firm pressure that is held for period of time to release areas of fascial tension.  You may feel a body part move as the tissue releases.  This movement of body parts is called “unwinding.”

A session is usually around 60 minutes long.  It may be helpful to have several Myofascial Release treatments in order to make lasting changes.  You may ask questions during your session.  If at any time you become uncomfortable and want your therapist to stop, you may ask him/her to do so.

Your therapist may also teach you some ways to treat yourself.  This can help create lasting changes.