Ananda Physical Therapy applies the Myofascial Release (MFR) Approach, as taught by John F. Barnes PT, LMT, NCTMB. He is an internationally recognized physical therapist, renowned lecturer, author, and the leading authority on MFR for the past 50 years.
What is Myofascial Release?
Myofascial Release is a highly effective, gentle, sustained, hands-on manual technique that releases restrictions in the body’s fascial system, eliminating pain, restoring function and movement.
Fascia is a type of connective tissue that is densely woven, and it surrounds every cell, muscle, bone, blood vessel, nerve, and every organ of the body including the brain and the spinal cord. It is a continuous structure that runs uninterrupted from head to toe. It can be visualized as a spider web draped over the body.
Since the fascial system connects every part of the body, it plays an integral role in the support and function of the body. Normal and healthy fascia is pliable, and has the flexibility and ability to move freely and withstand pressure.
On the other hand, fascia can become restricted with physical and emotional trauma (e.g., fall, car accidents), scarring, inflammation, poor posture, surgery, repetitive stress and any other type of injury or disease. It has been estimated that fascial restrictions can produce a tensile strength of as much as 2,000 pounds per square inch causing excessive pressure, pain, dysfunction, restriction of motion.
Fascial restrictions are often undiagnosed, misdiagnosed, or ignored since it doesn’t show up in standardized tests (MRI, x-rays, CT scans, myelograms, electromyography, etc. ). Since fascia continuously permeates the whole body, fascial restrictions in one part of the body can place tension on adjacent and distant body parts, producing bizarre symptoms that appear to be unrelated to the original problem/injury.
Myofascial release removes restrictions in the fascial system in a safe and effective manner.
Benefits of Myofascial Release
MFR CAN…
| heighten body awareness | decrease eliminate pain |
| improve posture | decrease stiffness |
| increase flexibility range of motion | lessen stress anxiety |
| improve overall wellbeing | decrease inflammation |
| restore health balance | prevent injury |