Fascial System

The fascial system is a fully integrated and uninterrupted network of connective tissue, covering everything from the inner aspect of the skull, to the soles of the feet.

It spreads three-dimensionally throughout the body, covering and supporting every inch of tissue, including the internal organs, nervous system and all other bodily structures.

The human body is dependent on this single network of all-encompassing connective tissue and if it is not working healthily, deformation and dysfunction can occur.

(NB: this information was taken from Ruth Duncan, MFR UK)

Effects of a Dysfunctional Fascial System

When structural dysfunctions occur as a result of the fascial system not being able to do its job properly, we begin to feel such things as tight muscles, aches and pains, fatigue, a heaviness in our limbs and inflexibilities throughout the body (to name but a few) and this is where Myofascial Release techniques can help.

Myofascial Release Therapy

This is a gentle and effective hands on therapy that employs a variety of techniques that encourage the body to heal itself by ‘freeing up’ the fascia (connective tissue).

It is facilitated by the Therapist applying a light, sustained pressure to the part of the body being worked on, but only up to the first barrier of resistance or ‘tightness’.

Once this has been achieved and heat builds up between the therapist’s hands and the client, release of the fascia (and in turn the muscles) begins to occur.  This is a palpable ‘letting go’ of tension in the soft tissue that can be felt by both client and Therapist, eliminating pain and restoring a good range of movement.

Further Reading

This is obviously a very brief description of Myofascial Release Therapy, but should you wish to read about it in more depth, there are plenty of scientific and therapeutic articles available online.